LIGHTWEIGHT Innovative Regional Express is the name given to a speculative prototype being developed for the German Land of Sachsen-Anhalt by Alstom LHB of Salzgitter. Intended to test a range of new technologies, the diesel-powered LiREx shares several features with the København S-Bane EMUs. Bodies will be more than 3m wide and carried on single axles. Floor height will be 800mm above rail, and traction equipment will be mounted in the roof.
Alstom LHB has subcontracted assembly to Fahrzeugtechnik Dessau, which will complete a prototype vehicle for the Innotrans show in Berlin in September. The original intention was to have a six-car train, but Alstom says only one car is currently being built for nationwide demonstrations. DB is contributing towards the development cost.
