Regional-Express

The term Regional-Express denotes a type of regional train in Germany (abbrev. RE) and Austria (abbrev. REX).

It is best compared to a semi-fast train, as it calls at fewer stations than Regionalbahn or S-Bahn trains, but stops more often than InterCity services. Regional-Express services are currently operated by DB Regio, though theoretically the federal states could give the franchise to any operator. Several operators (for example Metronom between Bremen Hbf and Hamburg Hbf) currently operate trains that are similar to a Regional-Express service, but have decided to use their own names for the sake of brand awareness instead.

Regional-Express services are carried out with a variety of vehicles such as DMUs (of Class 612), EMUs (of Class 425 or 426) or, most commonly, electric or diesel locomotives with Silberling or double-deck cars, the latter often with new Class 146 engines. Many RE services run in hourly intervals, carrying line numbers and sometimes even names, varying from state to state.

Since late 2006, Regional-Express services between Munich and Nuremberg that operate on the Nuremberg-Ingolstadt high-speed rail line reach top speeds of 200 km/h. These services are operated with repainted InterCity cars and Class 101 locomotives.