DB Class 646 - The history of the articulated railcar (GTW)
The so-called articulated railcar of Stadler Rail is one of Europe’s best-selling railcars for passenger transport. Originally, the Swiss Biel-Täuffelen-Ins-Bahn needed a new type of railcar, which did without heavy roof superstructures. In 1995 Stadler developed the first model. Here, the drive was combined in a separate module. Already in 1996, the Swiss Mittelthurgaubahn successfully used the first prototypes.
In order to use this railcar DB Class 646 also in Germany, a consortium was founded with AEG, SLM, Alusuisse and DWA-Bautzen, which supplies 30 vehicles to the Hessische Landesbahn. Only then also the German course rose with an order of 66 motor coaches. Since 2000, Stadler has been responsible for development and production alone. Visually, the railcar series 646 presents itself in different head designs. This train is available both purely electric but also diesel-powered. The model series with diesel-electric drive is led under the series 646 at the DB.
| Manufacturer: | Stadler Rail AG |
| Length: | 38,660 mm |
| Numbering: | 001 - 030, 201 - 213 |
| Weight: | 54 t |
| Years of construction: | 2000 - 2001 |
| Top speed: | 120 km/h |
| Retirement: | All railcars are operational |
| Number: | 43 |
| Power: | 420 kW |
| Attractive force: | 62 kN |
| Engine type: | MTU twelve-cylinder V |
| Train Protection: | Sifa, PZB |
| Axle formula: | 2'Bo2' |
| Seats: | 1st class 15 2nd class: 93 |
| Special features: | Air conditioning, WC |
| Interesting facts |
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| The railcar DB Class 646 belongs to the construction type 2'Bo2'. In the construction type 2'Bo2' two running axles united in a movable bogie, two individually driven axles in the same frame, as well as two running axles united in a movable bogie are installed. More interesting facts |
The railcar DB Class 646 and their home and roadworthiness
The UIC compliant railcar is a full-range vehicle powered by 2 of the 6 existing axles. The top speed is 120 km / h. As a light railcar, however, power losses occur due to soiled tracks and insufficient cooling of the drive units, which are then shut down for safety. On the other hand, this railcar offers optimal space utilization and offers its passengers a high level of comfort with air conditioning, multi-purpose room and new vacuum toilets.
The engine driver takes center in the head of the railcar DB Class 646. For a higher passenger volume, these trains can also be operated in multiple traction. For example, the railcar has its location in the Hessian railway in Betzdorf, Beienheim, Friedrichsdorf and Gießen. For example, the stations at Usedom, Neuruppin, Frankfurt (Oder) and Berlin belong to the home base.