February 2026 — A Siemens Mobility–Stadler consortium has secured a landmark contract to deliver fully automated S-Bane trains for Copenhagen, creating the world’s largest open railway system with driverless train operation (GoA4).
Under a framework agreement signed with Danish State Railways (DSB), the consortium will supply 226 four-car trainsets, with an option for up to 100 additional trains, in a deal valued at around €3 billion. The first trains are scheduled to enter passenger service from 2032, with deliveries continuing until 2040.
World’s Largest Open GoA4 Railway Network
The new fleet will form the backbone of Copenhagen’s transition to fully automated rail operations. Once complete, the S-Bane network will operate at the highest Grade of Automation (GoA4), enabling driverless trains across the 170-kilometre system.
DSB aims to increase service frequency by up to 35% on several routes, creating capacity for around 10 million additional passenger journeys annually. In central Copenhagen, trains could run as frequently as every 90 seconds during peak hours.
Roles of Siemens Mobility and Stadler
As consortium leader, Siemens Mobility will deliver the electrical systems, including propulsion, braking, onboard power supply, train control systems, passenger information systems and bogies. Stadler will provide the car bodies, interiors, air-conditioning, doors and final assembly of the trains.
Siemens will also supply a 30+ year service and maintenance solution through its TRailigent X and Railigent X digital platforms, ensuring long-term availability, cybersecurity and fleet reliability.
Iconic, Barrier-Free Train Design
The 56-metre-long trains are designed specifically for fully automated operation and passenger comfort. Each unit offers:
- Step-free, barrier-free access
- Open interiors with wide aisles and large windows
- Flexible multi-purpose areas for bicycles, prams and wheelchairs
- Seating for 120 passengers plus space for around 300 standing passengers
Future-ready features such as workspaces with tables, air conditioning, advanced passenger information systems and low-noise operation aim to bring long-distance comfort to suburban rail travel.
Sustainable and Future-Proof Technology
The trains will feature Siemens Mobility’s Air-free Brake System, reducing weight and cutting the CO₂ footprint by more than 50% compared to conventional pneumatic systems. Combined with modern propulsion technology, the system delivers higher efficiency and lower operating costs.
Preparing Copenhagen’s Rail Network for Growth
With passenger numbers already exceeding 110 million journeys annually, DSB sees full automation as critical to meeting rising demand while maintaining Copenhagen’s high punctuality and safety standards.
By introducing fully automated S-Bane trains, the city is positioning its suburban rail network as a global benchmark for capacity, reliability, sustainability and passenger experience.
