BeNEX has signed Siemens Mobility to supply 56 regional trains for the Mainfranken network, with entry into service on the Frankfurt–Würzburg–Nürnberg/Bamberg routes planned for the end of 2030.

The contract, signed during InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin, comprises 26 four-car Desiro HC trains and 30 three-car Mireo trains. All units come equipped with ETCS, intermittent automatic train control (PZB) and Onboard Units.

The signing brought together Michael von Mallinckrodt and Johann von Georg, Managing Directors at BeNEX, and Thomas Graetz, Head of Commuter and Regional Trains at Siemens Mobility.

Fleet composition and capacity

The two platforms split the capacity task between them. Each three-car Mireo seats 210 passengers and carries two toilets plus 18 bicycle spaces. The four-car Desiro High Capacity units seat up to 242 passengers in a double-decker formation, with 39 bicycle spaces and three toilets per unit.

Every vehicle in the order will be barrier-free. Onboard equipment includes eco-friendly air conditioning, USB ports and bicycle spaces.

Digital architecture

Siemens will connect all 56 vehicles to its Railigent X platform. The system will exchange and evaluate diagnostic data, passenger counting data and information for the passenger information system, alongside other functions. Siemens will also supply spare parts packages and special tools for both platforms.

The trains will operate across a network of approximately 330 kilometers spanning Hesse and Bavaria.

Supplier statement

Thomas Graetz, Head of Commuter and Regional Trains at Siemens Mobility, framed the order in terms of capacity and regional economic weight:

"With the new trains for the Mainfranken regional network, an even more attractive rail offering is being created for millions of passengers in Hesse and Bavaria. Our Desiro High Capacity and Mireo trains combine state-of-the-art rail technology with high capacity, accessibility, and travel comfort. That's how we are creating conditions for more capacity for passengers on the network and making an important contribution to sustainable mobility in one of Germany's strongest economic regions."

Graetz's capacity claims rest on the fleet numbers now contracted: 56 units replacing or supplementing rolling stock on roughly 330 km of regional routes, with double-decker Desiro HC formations offering the highest per-train seat count in the order at 242.

Delivery timeline

No delivery schedule has been disclosed beyond the target entry into service at the end of 2030, leaving roughly four years between contract signature at InnoTrans 2026 and passenger operations on the Frankfurt–Würzburg–Nürnberg/Bamberg corridors. Whether all 56 units will be available by that date, or whether entry into service will be phased across the fleet, remains to be confirmed as production progresses.

The order adds to Siemens Mobility's regional portfolio in southern and central Germany and positions the Mainfranken network for a fleet renewal that BeNEX and the operator will need to integrate with existing timetables, depot capacity and maintenance arrangements ahead of the 2030 deadline.