On March 5, 2025, NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) unveiled a full-scale model of its upcoming DDNG double-decker train, developed by CAF. This model offers a preview of the train’s exterior and interior design, giving passengers an impression of the upcoming new generation of EMUs.
The train’s design includes single-deck carriages at both ends with level boarding, facilitating independent access for individuals using wheelchairs or strollers. It has the following features:
- To maximize seating, the first-class section features two seats on each side of the aisle, optimizing space for passengers.
- New seating arrangements include high bar tables along the windows, suitable for laptop use, and elevated four-person seating areas with additional luggage space.
- The train’s construction emphasizes using renewable, reused, and recycled materials, aligning with sustainability goals.
- Top speed of 160 km/h (Most Dutch railway lines are limited to 140km/h)
Additional amenities include standard and wheelchair-accessible toilets, clear exterior icons indicating spaces for strollers or large luggage, and labels distinguishing first—and second-class sections. Most seats are equipped with power outlets and USB-C charging points. Upon boarding, passengers will find digital screens displaying comprehensive travel information.
60 trains have been ordered—30 with four carriages and 30 with six—offering approximately 30,000 seats on the Dutch railway network.
A focus on sustainability
A notable innovation is the creation of a material passport for each train before construction. This passport details the origin of materials used, ensuring they are circular—meaning they do not deplete natural resources and can be dismantled and recycled after the train’s service life. The Dubbeldekker Nieuwe Generatie (DDNG) is the first train to implement such a material passport, underscoring NS’s commitment to sustainability.
New interiors
The interior design stems from NS’s 2018 vision, which was presented during the Dutch Design Week and tested by over 600 passengers. The goal was to create more space and enhance comfort and experience. High bar tables, elevated four-person seating, and wood-patterned ceilings create a different atmosphere from previous NS trains. Conductors and drivers were also involved in the design process to ensure functionality. Visual elements on walls and doors are the work of artist Marieke van Diemen.
Project recap
NS closed the contract for these trains with CAF in 2022, and marks the second ‘Civity’ based trains for NS after the SNG. The first of these new trains is expected to enter service in 2029. The main goal is to replace the DDZ sets from the 1990s, consisting of rebuilt commuter coaches and power cars for Intercity services. Where NS previously kept its trains for Sprinter (stopping) and Intercity services quite separate, these new trains will be found on both.
Railcolor note: When the first renders for these trains were announced, we expected this to be a preliminary design. Now it has become the final design, and we can’t help but think there is a certain ‘identity’ missing to the front of the train, which previous NS trains did have. The desaturated colors of the interiors, also make for a somewhat ‘sterile’ environment, which does not feel as welcoming as NS probably meant it to be. Some might argue that a train is only a means of transport, but just like when buying a car, the end customer subconsciously appreciates a certain amount of identity.
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