The train, part of a 16-train fleet, arrived in Denmark in December 2023 and is now undergoing a dynamic testing phase in Copenhagen. The Talgo 230, with a maximum design speed of 230 km/h and an operating speed of 200 km/h, is set to serve international routes, initially connecting Copenhagen and Aarhus with Hamburg. The trains feature a wider build than standard cross-border traffic cars, providing more interior space and increased passenger comfort.
Talgo 230 trains are expected to reduce energy consumption by up to 30% compared to the industry standard. This efficiency is attributed to the rolling assembly technology and lightweight passenger coaches of the Spanish manufacturer, Talgo. Additionally, the trains boast a 95% recoverability rate for their structure.
The upcoming certification process in Denmark will ensure the trains meet DSB's high-reliability standards and are fully compatible with Danish infrastructure and existing third-party locomotives. Furthermore, a Talgo cab car will be added to each train in a subsequent phase, enabling a push-pull configuration that promises quick turnaround times at destinations while reducing train weight, and consequently, accelerating and braking times.
The procurement of these trains stems from a €500 million framework contract awarded to Talgo in February 2020, following an open tendering process. This contract included an initial order of €134 million for 8 trains. Subsequent orders were placed in April 2021 and April 2023, increasing the fleet size and the passenger capacity of the initial trains to 492 seats each.
The Talgo 230 platform is known for its light, independently rotating, self-guided rolling assemblies. These trains can be easily upgraded to very high-speed trains, reaching commercial top speeds of 300km/h. This adaptability has made the platform a choice for other European operators, including the German federal operator Deutsche Bahn (DB), which has ordered 79 units for domestic and international routes.
