The subject of the contract is the creation of a concept for the diesel-powered routes in Saxony-Anhalt with alternative drives, the associated necessary infrastructure, a corresponding vehicle concept and vehicle procurement and the relevant energy supply chains, the preparation of a final report with a corresponding database.

Germany has set the course for climate protection. This means that diesel multiple units in local rail passenger transport will have had their day in the medium term. Against this background, Nahverkehrsservice Sachsen-Anhalt GmbH would like to have comprehensive investigations carried out for the diesel routes in the federal state of Saxony-Anhalt on the operation by regional rail transport vehicles with alternative drives. Objectively, there are currently only three alternative drive concepts to choose from: the battery train (BEMU) – to bridge distances of approx. 80 to 130 km without overhead lines, the fuel cell multiple unit (HEMU) – for line networks without overhead lines or very long routes without overhead lines, or the electric multiple unit (EMU), if continuous electrification is possible. Hybrid variants involving a diesel drive are also conceivable, in particular for the design of interim solutions; whereby these must be examined with a view to economic efficiency. For a transitional period, the use of alternative fuels, e.g. HVO (hydro-treated vegetable oil), shall be included in the investigation.

The networks to be investigated should also include the existing electrified networks and include freight transport at a coarser level in order to identify synergies.

The diesel network Saxony-Anhalt will be reassigned in 12/2032 and at this time a change from DMU to an alternative form of propulsion is to take place.