ICE 3
German high speed train
ICE 3 (standing for Intercity-Express) is a family of high-speed electric multiple unit trains operated by Deutsche Bahn. It currently includes classes 403, 407 and 408 which are additionally specified as ICE 3, New ICE 3 and ICE 3neo respectively and formerly the retired class 406 or ICE 3M. ICE 3 trains have a maximum speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) in Germany, 320 km/h (200 mph) when travelling on the French high-speed rail lines. Class 403 are theoretically permitted to go up to a maximum speed of 330 km/h (210 mph) when travelling on the high-speed route between Frankfurt and Cologne.
Based on the ICE 3M/F, Siemens developed its Siemens Velaro train family with versions used in Germany, Belgium, France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, China, Russia and Turkey.
Class 403
The design goal of the ICE 3 (Class 403) was to create a higher-powered, lighter train than its predecessors such as the ICE 2 and the ICE 1. This was achieved by distributing its 16 traction motors underneath the whole train, thus ICE 3 trains are electric multiple units (EMUs). The train is certified for 330 km/h (210 mph) and has reached 368 km/h (229 mph) on trial runs. On regular Intercity-Express services they run at up to 300 km/h (190 mph), the maximum design speed of German high-speed lines.
Because the train does not have power cars, the whole length of the train is available for passenger seats, including the first car. The lounge seats are located directly behind the driver, separated only by a glass wall.
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