Austria’s Siemens Viaggio Comfort Railjet trains are set for a significant upgrade as national railway operator ÖBB announces a comprehensive modernization plan for its 60 high-speed trains by 2031. The upgrade will enhance both the train cars and their locomotives, marking a major step in refreshing the country’s premier long-distance service.
The first of the upgraded Railjet trains is expected to debut on the new Koralmbahn high-speed line between Graz and Klagenfurt, scheduled to open in December 2025. This line represents a key infrastructure project in Austria and will be a showcase for the modernized fleet.
Interior enhancements will include newly installed seating in both first and second classes, while business-class seats will be refurbished with upgraded footrests, armrests, and larger folding tables. The updated design will match the interior style of the newer nine-car Railjet trains ordered from Siemens in 2018. These newer trains are already shaping the future look and feel of ÖBB’s long-distance service.
Passengers can also expect improved flooring, upgraded passenger information systems, new areas for strollers, and the addition of food and drink vending machines—adding convenience and comfort across the board.
The Railjet trains currently in service were delivered between 2008 and 2016. As some of them now exceed half of their intended 30-year lifespan, ÖBB sees this modernization as critical to ensuring high-quality service for years to come. Each train is capable of reaching speeds of up to 230 km/h and operates not only in Austria but also in Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia.
ÖBB has been actively investing in the future of its Railjet services. In April 2023, the first of eight next-generation Railjet trains—each with a capacity of 532 passengers—entered service. Then, in March 2024, the Austrian operator agreed to purchase an additional 19 new Railjet units from Siemens at a total cost of €405 million.
These efforts reflect ÖBB’s broader strategy to strengthen its position as a leader in European rail travel, providing modern, comfortable, and efficient service for both domestic and international passengers.
