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Record run: ICE test train reaches 405 km/h between Erfurt and Leipzig!
On June 28, 2025, Deutsche Bahn tested a new ICE between Erfurt and Leipzig, reaching 405 km/h - a record!
Record run: ICE test train reaches 405 km/h between Erfurt and Leipzig!
Deutsche Bahn, together with Siemens, has tested a remarkable advance in high-speed rail. On June 28, 2025, a new train, the Velaro Novo, was put through its paces on the ICE route between Erfurt and Leipzig/Halle. During this test, the train reached an impressive speed of 405 km/h, which is a new record for this route. Loud MDR Such high-speed tests are intended to analyze and further develop the track conditions.
Special technology was used during the test: a middle car from the Velaro Novo platform, equipped with measurement technology, was pulled by an ICE locomotive. Despite the top technical performance, the test train arrived at Erfurt main station more than 30 minutes late, which was due to the complexity of the tests.
The Velaro Novo and its prospects
The Velaro Novo is currently not in regular operation and it remains unclear when and in what form it will be used in Germany. The current ICE trains are based on previous Velaro generations, which already have high speeds. Technically, most ICE trains are capable of reaching speeds of over 300 km/h, with one exception: the ICE 4, which travels at a maximum of 265 km/h.
The route between Erfurt and Leipzig was opened in 2015 and is specially designed for high speeds. According to Deutsche Bahn, the line is in very good condition, which makes it easier to carry out such tests. Before the current record, the top speed on this route was around 333 km/h.
Implications for the future of rail transport
Carrying out these tests is a step towards a possible improvement in rail transport in Germany. Due to the short distances between stations and an overloaded rail network, trains rarely reach their technical maximum speeds. However, the findings from the tests could help to further develop the infrastructure and increase the efficiency of rail transport. The new train is seen as part of efforts to make the German rail infrastructure fit for the future and to promote environmentally friendly transport alternatives.
While the technical capabilities of the trains are impressive, their practical implementation in regular operations remains to be seen. The rail network and train stations must undergo further adjustments in order to implement the speed records broken in the tests in everyday life.