MÁV-START INTERCITY+

2023

The MÁV-START IC+ is the long-distance InterCity service of the Hungarian State Railways. With the launch of the faster, qualitative version for intercity transport, MÁV-START has successfully broadened the IC+ series fleet. The IC+ cars are high-speed single-decker Intercity train cars. By combining intelligent, innovative design and much proven technology, the IC+ fleet is able time and time again to meet different requirements giving for the Hungarian State Railways improved cost efficiency, less maintenance and more environmentally friendly operation, while also giving long-distance rail passengers connections they can rely on coupled with a high degree of comfort. Intercity trainsets of up to eight cars are possible in standard and broad gauge with different supply voltages. The interior of the cars can be customised very flexibly to reflect the MÁV-START's individual requirements. The purpose of the new IC+ prototype production project is to create the conditions for the development of a family of railcars with a maximum speed of 200 km/h, air-conditioned passenger compartment, elevated InterCity equipment, suitable for both domestic and international traffic. The coaches are designed and certification has already been obtained for operation in Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Switzerland, Poland and Romania. The production of the new InterCity car was carried out in addition to its own engineering development, taking into account the possibilities of domestic suppliers to the maximum extent. 

Challenge

Currently, neither the exteriors, nor the interiors of the vehicle fleet operated by MÁV-START meet the demands of the current era. In november 2020, Hungarian State Railway elaborated a project for the new driving trailers for the IC+ fleet. The operator and the Máv-Vagon Kft. jointly have been collaborating on the design. In the framework of the project, in the first step, a train set consisting of two driving trailers will be produced as a pilot. The design serving passengers' comfort is well under the demands of these days. The production will begin with two prototypes, the first of which may be completed in 2024-2025. Following the completion of trials, the prototypes are expected to be followed by a batch of 60 driving trailers and a complet fleet of railcars with second and first class coaches with low floor and sleeping car solutions.

Solution

The main tasks in this complex design process were: elaborating the new exterior and interior design in the form of 2D and 3D visual concepts, preparation of final design elements for manufacturing, keeping contact with domestic and foreign suppliers, supervision of the technical making of the prototype vehicle. We helped compile the color & material documentation and technical specification documentation for the production process.

Exterior design

The exterior of the new driving trailer car body follows a clear, linear design. The target was to create a dynamic and timeless front theme which symbolizes a leading attitude. The InterCity cars runs via Hungary and abroad and reaches the famous capitals of central Europe. The architecture of the front wall and side theme; the sizes and rates are made by the ratio system of the perfect golden ratio.  The clear simplicity of it lays stress upon the travel experience and the comfort in the focus. The original tailor-made design, with its unmistakable profile creates a contemporary and forward-looking conception on a new technology level. A visually uniform appearance conveys the affiliation to the federal state. The inclined rectangle silhouette serves as basic design element. The operator MÁV-START Zrt. customer service department determines the accent color, while the logos of the service provider are placed in the blue and white areas. In the interior, the custom-made upholstery fabric, new pictograms and a unique color scheme form the visual identity of the mobility services.

Interior design

The design target of the driving trailer interior is to provide an ultimate comfort for each and every passenger and for the train driver to. The user-centred design is key priority right from the conceptual design project stage in order to ensure that the new InterCity service can be used by everyone, without exception. The new trains must be designed to be serviceable with no special adaptations or modifications. This inclusive and cozy interior offer a unique quality in this segment. The multifunctional, penetrable interior can provide priority for the passengers with different needs and has remarkable room for they and they luggage.

Passenger area

Pleasant and positive travel experiences, are not only defined by on-time departure and arrival. Especially in public transport, the comfort and services offered on board the vehicles are factors that significantly determine the perceived quality of travel.

Multifunctional area

InterCity service on next level. Uniqe low floor area with multifuncitonal open space. A variety of interior design options allow the storage to be tailored to specifi clocal needs of travellers, allowing for priority passangers, bicycles, or luggage.