Bavaria Plans More Overhead Lines for Rail Tracks in Swabia - Bavaria’s €60M rail upgrade replaces diesel with battery-powered trains by 2040
Bavaria is pushing ahead with plans to modernise its rail network by electrifying key routes in Swabia and western Upper Bavaria. The project, costing around €60 million in its initial phase, aims to replace diesel trains with cleaner alternatives by 2040. A major focus will be the 41-kilometre stretch between Kempten and Oberstdorf, a well-known tourist destination.
The upgrade will see roughly 100 kilometres of track fitted with overhead lines. These will power electric trains and recharge battery-operated ones, which can also run on non-electrified sections. Battery technology serves as a temporary fix while full electrification remains the long-term target.
Seventeen diesel routes in the region are set to transition to battery-powered trains. The changes will particularly benefit long-distance services to Oberstdorf, improving travel for visitors and locals alike. Bavaria’s investment covers the planning stage, with federal funding expected for later expansion. The shift away from diesel aligns with the state’s goal of phasing out such trains by 2040. A mix of fully electric and battery-powered trains will operate across the upgraded network.
The electrification project marks a significant step in Bavaria’s rail modernisation efforts. Overhead lines will cover key routes, including the Kempten–Oberstdorf line, while battery trains provide flexibility during the transition. The plan reduces reliance on diesel and supports cleaner travel in the region.
