"We will reach a new level thanks to the automation of the existing network. This will provide create greater passenger comfort, more space and even shorter waiting times on the platform," said Jens-Günter Lang, Chief Technology Officer at Hochbahn. The new CBTC system is scheduled for introduction on the U2 and U4 lines between the Horner Rennbahn and Jungfernstieg stations in late 2027. Each train continuosly communicates its exact position and speed to the main control system, which regulates the train intervals. The trains will still be manned by staff who coordinate boarding and alighting.
Successful "moving block" system
Hamburger Hochbahn completed a test run of the new train control system Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) in July. This success brings the company a step closer to its goal of running an underground train every 100 seconds. Unlike previous operations with fixed blocks, CBTC enables the dynamic and automated control of train spacing or moving blocks from the control centre. More trains will soon run simultaneously on the track, doubling passenger capacity and reducing the current tightest interval of 150 seconds by almost a minute. “U-Bahn 100” is one of Hamburg’s 17 flagship projects presented during the UITP Summit in 2025.
Automated safety distances
U-Bahn 100 - laying groundwork for transit in future
Construction work began in September 2024 through 2030. The rail network and signal boxes also have to be converted as part of U-Bahn 100. DT5 vehicles operated by Hochbahn will also be modified accordingly. Older models will gradually be replaced by modern DT6 vehicles. The project is scheduled for completion by the end of the 2020s.
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