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BERLIN (Reuters) – German company Siemens said on Thursday it had temporarily halted deliveries of its new ICE high-speed trains to rail operator Deutsche Bahn after defects were discovered in some components.
A Siemens Mobility spokesman told Reuters: “Siemens Mobility is in close dialogue with Deutsche Bahn and the subcontractor and is working hard to resolve the issue.”
The spokesman added that 21 of the 90 trains delivered so far to Deutsche Bahn were not affected and can be used safely.
During quality assurance tests, Siemens discovered defects in the weld seams of the components, and is now working with Deutsche Bahn on a timeframe in which the issue can be addressed.
“Siemens Mobility does not compromise on the quality and safety of its trains,” the spokesman said.
The Bild daily newspaper first reported on the halt in deliveries.
Deutsche Bahn is under pressure to modernize its aging railway network so Germany can meet its climate targets, as the government aims to double rail passenger numbers and increase the market share of rail freight traffic by 2030.
