Munich welcomes new S-Bahn trains
Munich’s subway trains are dirty, old, hot, overpriced, and unpunctual. No wonder MVV (Munich’s mass transit system) officials have been receiving so much bad press as of late. Relief is, however, in sight. In fall, shiny new red “ET 423” S-Bahn trains will roll into Munich. The modernized carriages resemble the city’s newfangled trams. Automatic door releases will put an end to the strenuous tugging one must now perform to exit the vehicle. There will be no more straining to understand a mumbling Bavarian driver. A recorded messenger will announce stops — in Hochdeustch; and, on airport trains, travelers will be given the scoop in both English and German. Passengers will also enjoy a more secure feeling. All cars lead to a glassed-in driver’s booth, giving riders an unobstructed view of the tunnel ahead. In winter, the vermilion bullets will be heated, in summer, cooled. Cheery blue seats, emergency call buttons, wider doors and a whopping DM 6 million price tag highlight the trains’ newest features. In addition, the ET 423 can attain a higher speed, one which S-Bahn officials hope will reduce delays. For those who can’t wait for the new commuter comforts, you’ll be pleased to discover the city of Munich and the German Rail recently invested DM 136 million in refurbishing 96 existing subway cars, to match those of the autumn delivery. Though the changes are long overdue, outspoken MVV critics hope the price of upgrading will not be reflected in even more exorbitant ticket prices.