The Gisela is coming as DLC—but what exactly is this iconic Berlin train?

The GI series, later known as GI/1 and GI/1E, is a true classic of the Berlin U-Bahn and has been a familiar sight for many Berlin passengers for decades.

Especially exciting: it is the only vehicle series designed in the GDR for the small-profile network of the Berlin subway. This means that Gisela has a special significance not only from a technical vehicle perspective, but also historically.

The series was developed in the 1970s. At that time, the old vehicles of the AI and AII series had already become heavily outdated and urgently needed to be replaced. Since neither converted S-Bahn cars nor Soviet standard vehicles would have fit into Berlin’s narrow small-profile network, a completely new vehicle had to be developed.

In 1975, the first prototype was created with the nickname “Gustav.” The later improved production version was then given the name “Gisela,” under which it is still known today.

The GI/1E in particular is still familiar to many Berlin passengers to this day. The vehicles were used for a long time primarily on the U2, and later also on the U1 and U3 lines.

Visually, Gisela is especially recognizable by its distinctive front, the characteristic side panels, and the classic interior design, which shaped the appearance of Berlin’s small-profile lines for many years.

That is exactly why, for fans of Berlin public transport history, this DLC is likely to be far more than just a new vehicle—it is a piece of Berlin subway history.

Yesterday, it was also announced that Gisela will be released as a DLC in collaboration with 3DZug. This means the vehicle is being implemented as a new DLC for SubwaySim 2.

Of course, we hope that this train will also be a great vehicle DLC for you.

Do you know Gisela from Berlin? Are you looking forward to the DLC? Which Berlin train is still missing for you?