Germany’s €1 Billion Deal for 25 New High-Speed Trains Advances Green Rail Travel
DB Fernverkehr has secured a leasing deal for 25 new ICE 3neo high-speed trains. The agreement, worth nearly €1 billion, will support climate-friendly travel on Germany’s busiest routes. A financing consortium led by BayernLB is backing the project under strict sustainability standards.
The leasing arrangement spans ten years, with DB Fernverkehr retaining full operational control and maintenance duties. The trains comply with both Green Loan Principles and EU taxonomy rules for sustainable transport. This ensures the fleet meets high environmental benchmarks while modernising Germany’s rail infrastructure.
The deal was finalised with support from Deutsche Leasing Group, whose managing director, Andreas Geue, called it a 'milestone' for the organisation. BayernLB board member Johannes Anschott highlighted the financing’s alignment with EU sustainability goals, reinforcing its role in upgrading the national rail network.
Siemens AG, involved in the project through its SFS division, emphasised the benefits of combining technology and financing under one provider. Board member Veronika Bienert noted how this approach accelerates the shift toward greener mobility. Meanwhile, DB Fernverkehr’s CFO, Wilken Bormann, stressed that the leasing model boosts financial flexibility while keeping key operations in-house.
The new ICE 3neo trains will strengthen DB Fernverkehr’s fleet as part of its ongoing renewal programme. The €1 billion leasing deal, structured to meet strict sustainability criteria, will help expand high-speed rail services across Germany. Operational responsibility remains with the company, ensuring continuity in maintenance and service quality.
