Berlin, May 18, 2026 – Passengers on Berlin’s U5 subway line will increasingly experience brand new trains in the coming weeks. The Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) has officially put the new J-series U-Bahn model into passenger service. While some of these brighter and more spacious cars have been seen during testing recently, their full deployment marks a significant upgrade for the city’s public transport.
Modernization of Berlin’s U-Bahn Fleet Underway
The J-series is a sister model to the JK-series, which has primarily been in use on the U2 line since September. The need for two different series stems from the varying sizes of trains required for the U1 to U4 lines (small profile) and the U5 line (large profile). The J-series specifically comprises these larger-profile vehicles.
Governing Mayor Kai Wegner (CDU) highlighted the significance of this launch, noting that the J-series represents the first new large-profile vehicles introduced in Berlin in 31 years. "We must continue to modernize our vehicle fleet and make it fit for the future," Wegner stated. BVG CEO Henrik Falk emphasized the critical importance of rejuvenating the fleet.
36 New Cars Ready for Immediate Deployment
Currently, 36 new J-series cars are already at BVG depots and are set for immediate deployment. A typical train consists of six cars. By the end of the year, the fleet of this series is expected to grow to approximately 170 cars. "Another 170 cars have already been ordered and will be delivered by manufacturer Stadler next year," the BVG announced.
Enhanced Passenger Comfort and Safety
Compared to previous series, the new vehicles feature a significantly more open design. Door areas are more spacious, providing noticeably more room for passengers in wheelchairs and with strollers. "The interior is bright, transparent, and open. This also contributes to safety over the length of the vehicles, as much more can be seen of what is happening inside," said Transport Senator Ute Bonde (CDU).
Indirect Benefits for U1 to U4 Lines
Beyond the U5, the small-profile lines U1 to U4 will also indirectly benefit from the introduction of the new series. On the U5 line, the new trains will initially replace nine-year-old small-profile series vehicles. These older trains will then undergo a brief conversion before being deployed to rejuvenate the fleets of the U1 to U4 lines.
This strategic rollout aims to enhance the overall quality and efficiency of Berlin’s U-Bahn network, providing a more comfortable and safer travel experience for all commuters.
