Batch-Built iLint HMUs

Last year, Alstom started batch production of the Type iLint 54 units. Unlike the 654 101 and 102 prototypes, the batch-built trains are designated by the new Class 554, which now refers to hydrogen trains (as the Class 654 would actually correspond to DMUs under the German designation system).

On 11 March 2021, 554 001 (consisting of cars 554 001 and 554 501), the first of 14 HMUs for EVB, was presented at the Alstom Salzgitter works. EVG will operate them from December 2021, where they will replace the diesel-powered trains, and will lease them from the LNVG pool.

In the meantime, 554 101 (consisting of cars 554 101 and 554 601) has appeared in Austria. This is the first iLint 54 for the Rhein Main Verkehrsverbund, which has ordered 27 of them. Unit 554 101 arrived in Wien on 2 September 2021 for testing in the RTA Rail Tec Arsenal climate chamber.