Deutsche Bahn aims to sustainably extend the lifecycle of its products. That’s why it upgrade not only trains but also other machines – including ticket validators.
Same train, new look
DB’s ICE trains have a lifespan of at least 30 years. To reach that age, a redesign is carried out at about halfway through their service life. The focus is mainly on refurbishing the train interior. Inside, DB reconditions many components and replaces parts that can no longer be refurbished – such as seats. Energy-saving LED lighting is also installed, and individual parts renewed to increase the trains’ technical stability.
ICE trains of the first and second generation, as well as many regional trains, have already received this makeover. The ICE 3 redesign was completed in July 2023. In addition, S-Bahn trains in Hamburg and RheinNeckar have been equipped with new lights, seats, and floors. With a redesign, DB saves up to 80 percent of material costs compared with buying new trains – conserving valuable resources.
Refurbished and longer in service
In addition to trains, DB also modernizes other devices and machines to extend their lifespan. Ticket validators, for example, are regularly reconditioned professional at a depot in Leipzig.
For a makeover, the devices don’t necessarily have to be defective or worn out – the goal is to make them fit for future use. This includes replacing parts or repairing damage. The Leipzig depot takes care of repainting, general overhauls, and installation. Replacement parts are sometimes even manufactured with modern 3D printers. This enables DB to get ticket validators back into service more quickly while saving delivery routes and costs.
Ticket machines are also refurbished. Devices that are outdated or damaged by vandalism are restored to working conditions at DB Kommunikation depots in Leipzig, Frankfurt am Main, and Rheinstetten. To ensure the machines are ready for use as quickly as possible, DB’s central warehouse supplies the necessary components directly to the depots.
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