CRRC Zhuzhou Rolls Out Westbahn Electric Train
The manufacturer debuted its first double-deck electric trainset for the Austrian rail operator in May 2021.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Transportation
Live Poll
Do you support the use of international manufacturers for regional train fleets in your area?
On May 31, 2021, CRRC Zhuzhou unveiled its first double-deck electric multiple-unit train built for Austria’s Westbahn. This development follows a December 2019 contract agreement to lease four such trainsets for fleet expansion.
Why it matters
The lease of these additional trainsets is designed to facilitate Westbahn’s operational expansion beyond its primary Wien-Linz-Salzburg corridor. By integrating these new units, the company aims to increase capacity and broaden its service reach across Austria.
Each six-car unit supports 571 passengers and can reach a maximum speed of 200 km/h. The trains are engineered for versatility, operating on both 15 kV 16·7 Hz and 25 kV 50 Hz traction supplies.
The players
CRRC Zhuzhou
This Chinese state-owned rolling stock manufacturer is a subsidiary of CRRC Corporation and specializes in the production of electric locomotives and multiple-unit trains.
Westbahn
Based in Wien, this private Austrian rail operator provides passenger services on the country's Western Railway line connecting major cities.
Stadler
This Swiss rail vehicle manufacturer is a major global producer of trainsets and light rail vehicles that holds a separate €300m contract with Westbahn.
The details
The trains utilize lightweight aluminium and carbon fibre composite materials to manage the total weight of the two motored vehicles and four trailers. They are also equipped with 1 400 mm single-leaf doorways to improve passenger boarding efficiency.
Timeline
The contract for the trainsets was officially signed in December 2019.
The first train was formally unveiled during a ceremony on May 31, 2021.
Certification for the Chinese-built trains is anticipated for mid to late 2023.
Market Landscape
The introduction of CRRC Zhuzhou trainsets marks a strategic diversification for Westbahn as it moves away from a singular reliance on European manufacturers. This move shifts the competitive dynamics in the regional rail sector by integrating Chinese-made rolling stock into the Austrian market.
Passengers traveling on the Wien-Linz-Salzburg corridor can expect increased capacity once these new trainsets complete certification and enter service. The deployment of these units is intended to improve long-distance travel options and service frequency for daily commuters and travelers.
The takeaway
The addition of these trains highlights a trend toward more diverse procurement in the international rail market to meet growing passenger demand. Travelers should monitor official announcements for updates on when these new, high-capacity units will begin operating on their local routes.
Further reading
For broader trends in rail development, see the latest updates in Transportation.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Railway Gazette International.
Live Poll
Do you support the use of international manufacturers for regional train fleets in your area?
