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DB BR 403 (1973)
   
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29 May, 2021 @ 1:10pm
11 May, 2024 @ 6:16am
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DB BR 403 (1973)

In 1 collection by Hellstrike
German Trains by Hellstrike
36 items
Description
German Class 403 high-speed EMU. Developed by Linke-Hofmann-Busch and Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm to provide fast IC services, the lightweight trains were capable of 220 kph, even if there was no railway in Germany certified for more than 200 kph at that time. Tilting systems were fitted but due to passenger complains during trials, those were not used during regular operations. Ten sets were purchased, all in 1st-class configuration and with a unique livery. While pioneering a lot of technologies and concepts, the non-standard design was expensive to operate and quite inflexible.

With the introduction of the 2nd Class to Intercity services in 1979, the trains were withdrawn since they were no longer useful. They were instead used for rail-charters, holiday services and as prestige shuttles for large events. In 1982, Lufthansa leased several sets and modified them for operations between Frankfurt Airport and Düsseldorf, where they replaced domestic flights. The new seats were the same make as the Business Class in their DC-10s and ample space was left for baggage, with managed transfers at Frankfurt Airport. Due to high comfort, punctuality and the scenic route through the Middle-Rhine valley (now considered UNESCO World Heritage), the Lufthansa Airport Express was highly popular with oversea visitors. An advertisement campaign with the slogan "Flight Level 0" became famous back in the day.

Corrosion damage saw all units withdrawn in 1993, a restoration project started in 2015 is currently on hold after one of the sponsors left.

Included are presets:
Single IC: 4-7 cars in DB special livery.
Double IC: 2*4 cars in DB special livery.
Triple IC: 3*4 cars in DB special livery.
LHA Single: 4-5 cars in Lufthansa livery.
LHA Double: 2*4-5 cars in Lufthansa livery.