Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Ruhr (VRR), the regional public transport authority in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, has unveiled the new generation of BMUs manufactured by CAF, which will be introduced on the Niederrhein–Münsterland network.
In this context, on May 22, in Neuss, Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Ruhr organized the third edition of the VRR Niederrhein Conference, attended by approximately 150 representatives from the political, economic, and transportation sectors, an event during which the new generation of hybrid trains was presented.
During the event, VRR highlighted the new trains developed by the Spanish manufacturer Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF), capable of operating with zero local emissions and running even on non-electrified sections, thanks to integrated energy storage systems. These vehicles will gradually replace the current diesel trains and contribute to the modernization of regional rail transport.
Major improvements for passengers and expanded capacity
The new BMUs manufactured by CAF offer up to 160 seats, full accessibility for people with reduced mobility, modernized interiors, and high-performance air conditioning systems. With a top speed of up to 140 km/h, the trains are designed for reliable and efficient service and are expected to significantly improve the quality of regional rail transport in the Niederrhein–Münsterland area. According to VRR, the first multiple units could enter service gradually, starting in December 2027.
“This is Germany’s largest procurement project for alternative-fuel vehicles. With these BMUs, we are bringing modern, clean, and quieter mobility directly to the people, replacing diesel and increasing capacity and comfort,” said Oliver Wittke, a representative of VRR.
In 2021, the transport authorities in Germany’s North Rhine-Westphalia state, VRR and NWL (Zweckverband Nahverkehr Westfalen-Lippe), selected CAF to deliver 60 BMUs. The order was expanded, and CAF will now deliver a total of 76 multiple units powered by batteries. The manufacturer will also provide maintenance services for a period of 30 years.
The vehicles will be delivered in two configurations, based on the Civity platform, with 122 seats and 160 seats, respectively.
In addition, CAF is investing in the creation of two modern, digitized facilities for maintenance services through the construction of a depot in Gelsenkirchen-Bismarck (work began in July 2025) and a satellite depot in Neubeckum,
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