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S-Bahn Berlin, Stadler Rail and Siemens Mobility have combined their respective strengths in operations, manufacturing and maintenance within a joint venture to modernize key segments of the German capital’s suburban rail network following the successful resolution of a protracted tender process. The partnership will see the delivery of 350 four-car fully walk-through trains designed for improved efficiency, safety and sustainability while ensuring long-term service reliability for the hundreds of thousands of daily passengers who depend on the system. According to consortium statements the structure builds on earlier collaboration and positions the partners to meet evolving demands in the Berlin-Brandenburg metropolitan region.
The agreement, which industry reports value at approximately 15 billion euros, encompasses not only vehicle supply but also three decades of maintenance and a 15-year operational concession for the North-South and Stadtbahn sub-networks. A legal challenge from Alstom that had delayed proceedings since the tender launch in 2020 was withdrawn in late June 2026 after a procurement chamber ruling, allowing the award to become binding the next month as Railway Gazette International reported. This cleared the path for the joint venture to move forward with fleet renewal that had been anticipated for years.[[1]](https://www.railwaygazette.com/germany/2026/06/30/berlin-s-bahn-train-order-to-be-signed-after-objection-dropped/)[[2]](https://www.urban-transport-magazine.com/en/berlin-s-bahn-procurement-concluded-new-fleet-programme-can-finally-start/)
The new rolling stock will advance a proven vehicle concept previously supplied by Stadler and Siemens for the S-Bahn ring network, where units have covered more than 120 million kilometers with strong reliability records. Enhancements include optimized traction systems for greater energy efficiency, updated fire protection and cybersecurity measures, brighter passenger interiors with dedicated wheelchair areas, height-adjustable seating, USB-C ports and air-conditioning systems that use halogen-free refrigerants, Siemens Mobility stated. Predictive maintenance will be supported by the Railigent X digital platform across the full 30-year term.
Peter Spuhler, chairman of the board of directors at Stadler Rail, said in a consortium statement, “I am extremely pleased about this important contract, which Stadler will now implement together with our partners at S-Bahn Berlin and Siemens with full commitment and great enthusiasm.” He noted that the 350 trains would be built in Berlin for Berlin, reinforcing local manufacturing capacity and securing thousands of jobs in the capital region throughout the project lifecycle. The partners have described the initiative as a strong signal for the economies of Berlin, Brandenburg and Germany more broadly.
Baker McKenzie advised the three parties on all corporate and legal elements of forming the joint venture from their original consortium, managing the process from initial conception through final implementation. Jakub Lorys, a partner at the firm, said it was a privilege to support such a landmark project while Katja Heuterkes, another partner, noted that a project of this magnitude requires careful structuring of the joint venture. The advisory work ensures compliance and operational alignment across the multi-decade commitments.
A framework contract awarded to Stadler and Siemens by S-Bahn Berlin in December 2015 for up to 1,380 electric multiple-unit cars provided the foundation for the current expanded partnership. That earlier deal focused on the ring and southeastern branches, with Stadler handling mechanical assembly at its Berlin Pankow facility and Siemens supplying electrical components. The latest joint venture extends this cooperation to deliver comprehensive modernization while addressing past reliability challenges that had affected the network.
The development arrives as Berlin continues to expand its public transport infrastructure to accommodate population growth and sustainability goals across the metropolitan area. By anchoring manufacturing, maintenance and operations within the region the partners aim to create lasting value beyond the immediate contract scope. Further details on implementation timelines are expected as the joint venture begins detailed planning.
