ICE-S speed test: Over 400 km/h between Erfurt and Leipzig!

ICE-S speed test: Over 400 km/h between Erfurt and Leipzig!

An exciting chapter in the history of Deutsche Bahn is currently being written. On June 28, 2025, a Deutsche Bahn test train, the ICE-S, reached the impressive speed of 405 km/h between Erfurt and Leipzig. This record was created on the new route, which could revolutionize travel in the future. [Spiegel] reports that this test is not only important for the railway's technology, but also offers a closer look at the possibilities of significantly shortening future journey times.

In short, the ICE-S is nothing less than the flagship among DB Systemtechnik's specialized trains. With a length of 76 meters and a weight of 210 tons, it comes with a special pantograph that transmits the contact forces on the contact wire and thus precisely analyzes the interaction between train and infrastructure. [Deutsche Bahn] describes that the train has already traveled the route between Leipzig and Bamberg at speeds of up to 330 km/h in order to guarantee safety for regular operations at 300 km/h.

Technical masterpiece

What is actually behind the impressive technology of the ICE-S? The train has special measuring wheel sets that record forces in wheel-rail contact. In addition, accelerations are measured both on the chassis and in the car body, which leads to a high level of precision. According to [Deutsche Bahn], the ICE-S has already “cleared” all newly opened high-speed routes in Germany. This also includes the upcoming commissioning of the new Wendlingen-Ulm line on December 11, 2025.

Another interesting aspect is how the data between the train and the train control system ETCS is measured. This ensures that operation always takes place under safe conditions. Deutsche Bahn therefore has a great interest in further expanding this technology and promoting the efficiency of rail transport in Germany. These developments prove that the railway is not only equipped with modern technology, but also with a good hand for the future.

The next steps

Will these high speeds also be reflected in the timetables? That remains to be seen. Nevertheless, the current tests are a positive signal for rail transport in Germany. As technology and infrastructure advance, the ICE-S could soon make rail travel faster and more comfortable. Another sign of progress is that the train will continue to be used for regular inspections of high-speed routes in order to optimize the interaction between vehicle, road and contact wire.

In any case, we are closely monitoring developments here in Cologne and look forward to faster connections in the near future. The innovative strength of Deutsche Bahn suggests that it could soon be possible to jet across Germany at record speeds, as if it were an everyday walk in the park.