Copenhagen S-bane Set for Fully Driverless Future With Record Train Order from Siemens

Denmark’s state rail operator has signed a major framework agreement that will see a new generation of fully automated trains introduced on Copenhagen’s S-bane network, marking one of the largest rail investments in the country’s history.

DSB has selected a consortium formed by Siemens Mobility and Stadler to deliver 226 four-car, driverless trainsets, with options in place for up to 100 additional units. The deal creates what is described as the world’s largest open railway system using automated train operation, with the consortium’s share of the contract valued at around three billion euros.

Under the agreement, Siemens Mobility is leading the consortium and will supply the electrical and control systems, including propulsion and braking, onboard power supply, train control and passenger information systems, as well as the bogies. Stadler is responsible for the carbodies, couplers, interior fittings and seating, doors and air-conditioning, and will carry out final assembly of the trains.

Alongside the trains themselves, Siemens Mobility will provide a long-term Technical Support & Spares Supply Agreement, known as TSSSA+, incorporating its Railigent X digital maintenance platform. The support package is designed to ensure reliability and availability for at least 30 years and includes the provision of full IT systems. The first trains are expected to be ready for passenger service from 2032, with deliveries continuing until 2040.

The move to fully automated operation is intended to significantly boost capacity on the Copenhagen S-bane. DSB plans to run trains every seven and a half minutes on each line during peak periods, with intervals as short as one and a half minutes through central Copenhagen. On some routes, this will represent up to a 35 percent increase in services, allowing for around ten million additional passenger journeys each year. The S-bane carried approximately 111 million passengers in 2025, with further growth expected.

The new trains have been designed to stand out visually while retaining familiar elements of DSB’s established suburban fleet. Large side windows and prominent front glazing are intended to create a bright, open environment, particularly important for automated operation. Each 56-metre train will offer 120 fixed seats, 36 folding seats and space for around 300 standing passengers, with wide aisles and generous entrance areas to support busy peak-time conditions.

Step-free access is provided through ground-level entrances with sliding steps, while flexible multi-purpose areas can accommodate bicycles, wheelchairs and prams. Passenger comfort is further enhanced through modern information systems, optimised exterior displays, smooth running characteristics and low noise levels.

Internally, the trains will offer greater flexibility than the current S-bane fleet, with features including 2+2 seating layouts, air conditioning, tables and workspaces for commuters, and dedicated wheelchair spaces. The aim is to bring elements more commonly associated with long-distance travel into an urban rail setting.

The trains will also incorporate new engineering solutions, including Siemens Mobility’s Air-free Brake System. By replacing conventional pneumatic components, the system reduces weight and cuts the associated CO₂ footprint by more than 50 percent, while improving efficiency and lowering operating costs when combined with a modern propulsion system.

A separate 30-year service agreement has also been agreed, with options for two additional five-year extensions. This will see Siemens and Stadler take overall responsibility for maintenance, while DSB staff carry out day-to-day work. The arrangement includes spare parts supply, maintenance support, cybersecurity services and digital tools such as CORMAP, Railigent X and FRACAS/RAM reporting systems to improve fleet availability and reliability.

In parallel, Siemens Mobility is upgrading the entire 170-kilometre S-bane network to the highest level of automation, GoA4, enabling fully driverless operation using the Trainguard MT CBTC signalling system. Contracts announced in 2024 cover both onboard and trackside equipment for the new fleet. Automation will be introduced in stages, with initial services planned from 2030 and full GoA4 operation targeted by 2033.

Flemming Jensen, CEO at DSB said:

“This is the largest investment in the 90-year history of the S-Bane. With this investment, DSB takes another important step toward future proofing the capital’s public transport. Increased frequency and capacity will ensure that the S-Bane keeps up with growing demand and maintains its role as the backbone of Copenhagen’s transport network.”

Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility said:

“Together with Stadler, we are proud to have been selected to build and maintain 226 new S-trains for Copenhagen. This order will create the world´s largest open railway system with automated train operation. We’re not just delivering trains, but intelligent mobility solutions, including Railigent X and our innovative Air-free Brake System, to keep Copenhagen’s public transport efficient and sustainable. Our partnership with Copenhagen is long-standing. We are already upgrading the S-bane network with advanced signaling for full automation by 2033 on behalf of Banedanmark and DSB, building on our previous work to increase capacity and reliability.”

Ansgar Brockmeyer, Head of Marketing & Sales Division and Deputy Group CEO of Stadler said:

“With these new trains, we are continuing the iconic design tradition of the Copenhagen S-Bane S-train. The vehicles are a good example of how design goes hand in hand with comfort and pioneering technology. Designed for fully automated operation, passengers can look forward to trains that will significantly enhance their travel experience. The order is of great strategic importance and will help us to further expand our presence in Northern Europe. We thank DSB for the order and look forward to building the trains in our proven consortium with Siemens.”

Image: Siemens