📋 Tender Overview
Latest technology, modern design and comfortable seats
Debut through the Koralmtunnel on December 12th
More comfort for the direct connection Vienna - Lienz in the 2026 timetable
(Vienna, November 20, 2025) - The most famous trains in the OBB fleet are receiving an upgrade. All 60 Railjets in the existing fleet will be comprehensively modernized over the next few years. With over 15 years on the rails and approximately halfway through their planned operational life, the OBB Railjets have been raised to a new level in terms of technology and comfort. By 2031, all existing sets are to be modernized and adapted to the quality standards of the new generation Railjets.
Investments in the railway are investments in climate-friendly and future-proof mobility. With modern infrastructure and comfortable trains, we are creating the basis for a successful mobility transition. By 2030, around 19.7 billion euros will flow into the expansion and modernization of the Austrian rail network - a clear commitment to quality, reliability and sustainability. In addition, OBB is investing around 6.1 billion euros in its vehicle fleet. The modernized Railjets will increase the comfort and travel experience in the Noticeably improve long-distance transport, emphasizes Peter Hanke, Federal Minister for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure.
With the Railjet upgrade, we are significantly increasing the comfort and quality standards in our trains in order to offer our passengers maximum travel comfort on the rails. The modernization and conversion of existing sets offer a sensible and sustainable alternative to new vehicles. With the first completed set, we can already celebrate the opening of the Koralm Tunnel on December 12th, emphasizes OBB CEO Andreas Mattha.
Use of the modernized Railjets
The first, fully modernized Railjet set will celebrate its debut through the tunnel as part of the opening on the Koralmbahn on December 12, 2025 and will be called Koralmjet. From the timetable change on December 14, 2025, the first upgraded set will be used on the direct connection between Vienna and Lienz. The modernized trains will in future be used on the Railjet routes in Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Italy.
The Railjet upgrade
As part of the upgrade, the old seats of the existing Railjets in first and second class will be exchanged for new ones, and the seats in business class will be replaced. The modernization also includes footrests, grab handles and larger folding tables. The interior design adapts to the look and feel of the new generation Railjet and is characterized by a modern wood look and full-length backrests on the seats for more privacy. The carriages will also be equipped with new floor coverings, an improved passenger information system and optimized stroller parking spaces.
