ICE fleet at a glance: Which ICE series accounts for the largest share of DB long-distance transport?

Germany’s ICE fleet consists of several major variants introduced since the early 1990s. The ICE 1 launched the era with 58 trainsets delivered between 1991 and 1993. It was followed by 44 ICE 2 units delivered in 1996 and 1997. The tilting ICE T added 70 trainsets between 1999 and 2006. The ICE TD, delivered in 2001 in 20 units, has been fully withdrawn from service.

The third generation significantly expanded the fleet, with 79 ICE 3 units in total, including 62 of classes 403 and 406 (2000–2006) and 17 Velaro D units (class 407) delivered between 2014 and 2017. The ICE 4 is currently the largest group with 137 trainsets delivered from 2017 to 2024. Additionally, 90 ICE 3neo units are being delivered between 2022 and 2028.

Numerically, the ICE 4 is the most represented class in Germany at present. Around 60 ICE trainsets operate internationally, and by 2029 the total fleet is expected to grow to 484 trainsets.

Which ICE series do you like best—and why? Which series have you traveled on most often? Is there an ICE generation that you are less fond of using?

(C) Deutsche Bahn AG / Volker Emersleben