Italian High-Speed Rail Operator Italo Eyes German Market, Munich a Key Hub
Munich, May 6, 2026 – Italian high-speed rail operator Italo, known for its distinctive red trains and luxurious service, is poised for a major expansion into Germany. The move, championed by former Ferrari CEO Luca di Montezemolo, promises significant benefits for Munich, including new hourly connections to key German metropolitan areas. A crucial decision from German authorities is anticipated in May, which could trigger substantial investments and job creation.
Mega-Expansion Plans and Siemens Partnership
Luca di Montezemolo, Italo’s boss, revealed in an interview with the “Frankfurter Allgemeine” that he is hopeful for a green light from Germany this May for his ambitious project. If long-term network capacity allocation is secured, Italo plans massive investments, including a €3.6 billion order for new trains from Siemens. This deal would also entail Siemens maintaining the trains for 30 years. Furthermore, Italo intends to establish a German subsidiary, creating 2,500 jobs within the country.
Unlike their red Italian counterparts, the German Italo trains are planned to be blue on the exterior, while maintaining the luxurious interior design envisioned by the former Ferrari chief. Montezemolo believes Italo’s entry into the German market will greatly benefit local rail customers, citing a 40 percent reduction in ticket prices in Italy since Italo’s market entry, often offering very affordable fares.
Planned Connections from Munich
Italo aims to commence operations in Germany as early as April 2028. The company plans to offer inner-German connections that would significantly enhance long-distance travel from Munich. Specifically, Italo intends to run hourly services on the Munich-Cologne-Dortmund route and two-hourly services on the Munich-Berlin-Hamburg route.
According to Italo, the company would pay approximately €250 million annually in track fees in Germany, funds that could then be reinvested into the rail infrastructure. Italo also plans to maintain a strong presence at German train stations, similar to its operations in Italy, with dedicated counters, ticket machines, and lounge areas.
Challenges and Optimism
The success of Italo’s plans hinges on securing approval from the Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur). Despite potential hurdles, Montezemolo expressed strong confidence, stating, “A withdrawal would not be in anyone’s interest.”
This development follows earlier reports of Frecciarossa, another Italian rail operator, planning new direct connections from Munich to Milan and Rome via Verona starting in December. Italo’s entry would further intensify competition and potentially offer more diverse and affordable travel options for passengers.
Public Reaction and Concerns
The news has generated discussion among the public. Some express skepticism regarding the punctuality and reliability of new services, citing existing issues with German rail infrastructure. Others, however, welcome the prospect of increased competition and potentially improved service quality and lower fares. Concerns about the impact of a potentially struggling rail infrastructure on new, luxurious trains have also been raised.
The city of Munich and the wider Bavarian region are poised to be key beneficiaries of this ambitious expansion, offering residents and visitors enhanced connectivity and potentially more competitive pricing in the long-distance rail sector. The final decision from German authorities in May will be a pivotal moment for the future of rail travel in Germany.
