Mireo BEMUs for Netz Nördliches Westfalen
posted on 16th Dec 2025 11:34
The Zweckverband Nahverkehr Westfalen-Lippe (NWL) will use 61 Mireo Plus B battery-powered trains from Siemens Mobility on the routes of the Northern Westphalia Network (Netz Nördliches Westfalen, NNW) starting in December 2029. The financing and provision of the vehicles will be carried out via an innovative leasing model by Rock Rail NnW GmbH & Co. KG. This order marks the largest modernization step for regional passenger rail transport in the region and will form the second largest fleet of batterie trains in Germany.
Christiane Auffermann, NWL Managing Director: "Locally emission-free, alternatively powered vehicles are the future of local rail transport. Especially in rural regions like Westphalia-Lippe, battery-powered trains offer ideal technological prerequisites to bridge sections of track without existing overhead lines in a climate-friendly manner. With the deployment of the 61 Siemens vehicles, the second-largest BEMU fleet in Germany will operate in the NWL area - setting new standards for sustainability in regional transport."
The two-car Mireo Plus B units are characterized by a car length of 25 m and a design with four doors per train side. This increases the number of seats and enables quick passenger changes. The interior is generously designed and offers space for two wheelchair users and 18 bicycles. With sustainable material selection and a recyclability rate of more than 90 %, the vehicles combine environmental friendliness, comfort, and future-oriented design.
For passengers, the new BEMUs will offer noticeably more amenities: Wi-Fi in all trains, numerous power outlets and USB charging ports, comfort lighting, comfortable seats, a low noise level, and step-free access for quick and barrier-free entry ensure a significant improvement in rail services in East Westphalia-Lippe and Münsterland.
With an annual service volume of approximately 7.1 million train kilometers and a planned operating period of at least 15 years, the NWL is sending a strong signal for the mobility transition.
