Railjet 2 again at Velim
posted on 1st Oct 2026 10:47
On 29 September 2026, the railjet 2 with a driving trailer 80-90 910 arrived in the VUZ Test Centre Velim. Testing began that same day, aimed at verifying the Trainguard Mirel VZ1 ATP. The objective of these test runs is to obtain the necessary regulatory approval for the operation of the vehicle in the Czech Republic. Siemens has not disclosed details regarding the specific phases or the duration of the testing (typically spanning several weeks).
On 19 August 2026, ERA issued authorization for operation in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary, and Croatia for the coaches of Viaggio N family (Viaggio Next Level, now branded by Siemens as Vectouro), comprising the Class Bfmpz (driving trailer), Bbmpvz, BRmpz, Bmpz, Ampz1, and Ampz2 cars. This means that the ÖBB railjet 2 units now have an expanded Area of Use for further countries to the existing Austria, Germany, and Italy. Though currently only in towed (pulled) mode, which is also the only mode currently permitted in Italy; consequently, full push-pull operation with railjet 2s is possible only in Austria and Germany at present.
The list omits the classes designated for the nightjet NMUs, specifically the Class ABbmpvz (multi-purpose seating car), Bcmz (couchette car), WLAmz1 (intermediate sleeping car), and WLAmz2 (end sleeping car), meaning these night units can currently operate in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy (DACHI); this follows approvals issued by the ERA on 24 November 2023 for Germany, Austria, and Italy, and by the BAV on 5 December 2023 for Switzerland.
The Class Bfmpz driving trailers are identical for both Viaggio Next Level train types, differing only in their inventory numbers: nightjet driving trailers are numbered 80-91 701 and above, while those of railjet 2s use numbers 80-91 901 and above.
ÖBB originally ordered 13 Viaggio Next Level NMUs, followed by a subsequent order for another 20 sets in the nightjet configuration. However, in July 2025, they reduced this scope from 33 to 24 nightjets and, conversely, increased the order for second-generation railjet units for daytime travel from 27 to 40; consequently, the final fleet will consist of 12 nine-car and 28 seven-car railjet 2 units.
The final nightjet, number 024, featuring driving trailer 80-91 724, was delivered to ÖBB in June 2026 (though test runs are still being conducted with unit 001).
