The Schleswig-Holstein Local Transport Association (NAH.SH) and the Schleswig-Holstein State Railway Vehicle Authority (ZUG.SH) have established a framework for collaboration through a new business management agreement.
Under the agreement, ZUG.SH will take charge of acquiring, maintaining, and managing a fleet of 42 electric trains. These trains, valued at approximately €500 million, are set to be deployed on key routes connecting Hamburg with Kiel, Flensburg, Wrist, and Itzehoe by late 2027.
NAH.SH will provide advisory and operational support to ZUG.SH, with the agreement specifying the scope and conditions of this cooperation.
One of the key elements introduced by the agreement is a leasing model aiming at competition in regional rail services. ZUG.SH will own the trains and lease them to operators, enabling smaller railway companies without their own fleets to participate in network tenders. This model is designed to reduce barriers for less capital-intensive operators, potentially diversifying the pool of service providers.
The formation of ZUG.SH in 2024 was a response to challenges in securing private financing for the train acquisition. By structuring the purchases under a state-owned entity, Schleswig-Holstein expects to realize cost savings of €70 to €110 million over the next 30 years compared to private financing options.
The agreement is intended to streamline collaboration between the two entities, ensuring an efficient process for managing the new fleet while enabling the rail network to accommodate future operator changes more effectively. The partnership reflects a structured approach to addressing regional transport needs while creating a more inclusive operating environment for railway service providers.
