Munich, June 15th – The Deutsche Bahn has initiated a public competition to name the first tunnel boring machine for the city’s 2nd S-Bahn main line. Residents are invited to submit their name suggestions for the massive machine, which measures 178 meters in length and weighs approximately 700 tons, until June 30th, 2026.
Public Engagement in a Major Infrastructure Project
This initiative aims to involve the public in a significant infrastructure project for Munich and the wider region. Jörg Müller, Head of Technology for the 2nd S-Bahn main line, stated, “We are building the 2nd S-Bahn main line for the people of Munich and the entire region. Therefore, we think it’s wonderful when people can participate in a special part of this project and give a name to the first tunnel boring machine.”
The Tradition of Naming Tunnel Boring Machines
Traditionally, tunnel boring machines are given female names. This custom traces back to Saint Barbara, who is considered the patron saint of miners. The machine itself has been specially designed to handle the challenging ground conditions beneath Munich.
Key Details of the Naming Competition
- Submission Deadline: June 30th, 2026
- Voting Period for Finalists: July 13th to July 24th, 2026
- Desired Names: Female names with a connection to Munich, Bavaria, technology, science, or infrastructure. Creative acronyms with a clear derivation are also welcome.
A project team will pre-select three names from all submissions. The public will then have the opportunity to vote online for their favorite among these finalists. The winning name will be officially announced shortly thereafter.
Exclusive Tour for the Winner
The individual or group whose suggested name is chosen will receive an exclusive guided tour of the tunnel boring machine at the western tunnel portal. This special tour will take place during the open construction site weekend on September 12th-13th, 2026.
The Tunnel Boring Machine’s Role in the 2nd S-Bahn Main Line
Starting in mid-September 2026, the tunnel boring machine will be deployed from the western tunnel portal at Donnersbergerbrücke. It will construct the approximately three-kilometer-long exploration and rescue tunnel for the 2nd S-Bahn main line. The machine, a so-called Mixshield, was developed by ARGE Tunnel Hauptbahnhof in collaboration with the manufacturer Herrenknecht. ARGE (Arbeitsgemeinschaft) comprises the companies Wayss & Freytag Ingenieurbau AG, Firmengruppe Max Bögl, Ed. Züblin AG, and Bauer Spezialtiefbau.
Further information and the submission portal can be found at
