Rail secures ICE-1 updates until the end of 2038

The German railway operator Deutsche Bahn has secured two framework agreements with Alstom Transportation Germany GmbH for the software maintenance and development of the ICE-1 train series until December 31, 2038. This ensures the continued safe operation of these trains through Germany even beyond their current service life, with some units potentially being over 47 years old by 2040. The ICE-1s were originally built between 1993 and 1997, consisting of power cars and intermediate carriages. The contracts cover the upkeep and creation of three key systems: DAVID, ZEUS, and ZSG. DAVID stands for “Diagnose-, Aufrüst- und Vorbereitungsdienst mit integrierter Displaysteuerung,” a pioneering technology developed in the 1990s. It enabled automated preparation of stationary ICE 1 units before drivers began their shifts, ensuring they found operational and climate-controlled trains ready for service. ZEUS, meaning “Zentrale Einrichtung zur Überwachung und Steuerung,” connects the intermediate carriages to the power cars, while ZSG refers to the train control unit. The procurement process followed the relevant sector regulation (SektVO), which allows for non-competitive awarding under specific conditions, such as when other options are unavailable or economically unviable. According to the Bahn, Alstom is the sole provider with access to the existing software rights, source code, and testing facilities. Replacing the entire system would be too costly and impractical, making Alstom the only viable option. Alstom had already been contracted for maintenance work on the ICE 1 fleet, with the previous agreement set to expire in 2028. To ensure continuity, the Bahn extended the contract ahead of schedule. The company emphasized the importance of maintaining support from Alstom, warning that otherwise, there could be an unacceptable risk of a complete fleet shutdown due to lack of technical resources. The exact cost of the framework agreement was not disclosed in the official announcement. However, according to EU regulations, contracts exceeding a certain threshold must be published in the European Union’s procurement portal. Since the amount was listed as one euro, it suggests the actual value is significantly higher. Based on similar contracts, the estimated total cost is likely more than 432,000 euros excluding VAT, as this is the minimum threshold requiring public disclosure. For Alstom, securing the software maintenance contract represents a late but notable success. Initially, the French company criticized the German government's decision to develop the ICE independently rather than adopting high-speed rail technologies from France. However, since the ICE program began, Alstom’s stance appears to have evolved. In 2014, the company won its first major contract to retrofit ICE 1 units with ETCS signaling technology. Another contract was awarded in 2020, further solidifying its role in the ongoing modernization of Germany’s high-speed rail network.