A CLOSER LOOK: Stadler KISS Stands Out at InnoTrans 2024

At the InnoTrans exhibition, Stadler unveiled its double-decker electric train unit, the KISS, in the colors of Austrian operator ÖBB. These units will operate on suburban routes under the Cityjet designation. Each trainset consists of two end cars with driver cabins and intermediate cars. Cityjets will run as either four-car sets with 373 seats or six-car sets offering 593 seats. The maximum speed is 160 km/h.

These units will operate on suburban routes under the Cityjet designation. The train consists of two end cars with driver cabins and intermediate cars. The Cityjet will run either as four-car sets (offering 373 seats) or six-car sets with 593 seats. The maximum speed is 160 km/h.

While the technical parameters are clearly defined, we toured the displayed four-car unit (consisting of two end cars and two intermediate cars) with a passenger’s perspective in mind. How do we like the new Cityjet?

Stadler KISS Doors and Accessibility

Each car has a pair of double-leaf sliding doors with a 130 cm wide opening, which are activated by pressing a green button. Both door panels open simultaneously. Symbols for wheelchairs, bikes, strollers, and the quiet zone are displayed above the entrance doors, while ÖBB and VOR logos are located near the button.

This placement makes sense: if you’re standing with a bike on a crowded platform, having the symbol visible above other passengers’ heads is practical. Electronic boards above the windows show the direction of travel and the next stop.

Stadler KISS Seating

The Cityjet has no class distinctions. However, the upper levels in the end cars are designated as "ruhezone" (quiet zones). The seats are upholstered in ÖBB's traditional gray-red combination and arranged in pairs, either airline-style or facing each other. The same setup exists across the aisle.

Each pair of seats has an armrest in the middle, which can fold up toward the aisle or between the seats. Power outlets for 230V and USB devices are located at the base between each pair of seats. All seats are adjustable with a lever at the bottom and feature foldable footrests. Considering these units are designed for suburban routes, the seating is very comfortable.

For airline-style rows, tray tables can be folded out from the seatback. These are made of plastic but have a surface that imitates wood. A new addition is a grooved mini-shelf at eye level for holding a phone, so you can comfortably watch a video. Next to this is a pull-out hook for hanging cables or light clothing, which deploys when pressed.

In the low-floor sections, most seats are arranged in pairs facing each other. These seats are intended for less mobile passengers, as marked by symbols on the windows. There’s ample space between the seats for easier access. The windows are equipped with shades, but there are no waste bins near the seats. Recyclable waste should be disposed of in metal bins near the external doors.

The low-floor section does not have fold-out tables. If you need to work, head to the upper level.

A unique feature is the fold-down seats positioned against the windows mid-car, reminiscent of metro layouts. This configuration is present in both end cars.

The train also includes foldable seats near areas designated for bikes or strollers. Another standout feature is the red perching bars, which provide support for standing passengers.

The seating area is separated from the boarding area, or the space for bikes and strollers, by a transparent partition wall. This wall also includes a screen displaying the train’s travel information. The seating area features overhead lighting and luggage racks.

Wheelchair Accessibility and Restroom with Changing Table in Stadler KISS

In the car designed for wheelchair users (indicated by a symbol above the door), there is a blue assistance button on the exterior wall to request help with the ramp. A notable trend is that wheelchair users now have their own dedicated space, rather than sharing it with cyclists. This car provides two such spaces, separated from the boarding area and each other by a partially transparent wall. The wall that wheelchair users can lean their chairs against is wooden with metal strips to prevent scratches.

Each wheelchair area includes a pair of standard seats for accompanying passengers, and additional passengers can sit across the aisle in a row of regular seats. Wheelchair users and their companions also have access to a fold-out wooden table, a 230V power outlet, and a help button. A thoughtful touch is the pull-down window shades with a vertical bar at the bottom, making them easy for wheelchair users to reach.

The restroom in this car is wheelchair-accessible and therefore spacious. As is common in such designs, it includes a fold-down baby changing table. The restroom is uniquely finished in gray, which makes the various buttons and metal grab bars stand out. Even the changing table is gray. Above the large, slanted sink are buttons and a large mirror that creates the illusion of more space. The half-round doors are light-colored with a wood-like finish and open at the push of a button. Locking the door is extremely simple, using just a latch.

From a wheelchair user’s perspective, the restroom entrance is located on the opposite side of the car. They need to navigate the aisle between the restroom cabin and the car wall. However, the aisle is wide, as there are no seats along the wall, only "perching bars". On the other side of the restroom, there are three fold-down seats, making it an ideal spot for travelers with strollers.

Unlike other trains with external folding ramps or lifting devices near the doors, this car does not have such mechanisms. Instead, there is a folded aluminum ramp, stored on the wall in the aisle. In Austria, such ramps suffice since all platforms are high enough to allow level boarding.

Traveling with Bicycles and Strollers via Stadler KISS

In the car designed for bicycles and strollers (indicated by symbols on the doors), the designated space is located right behind the doors. On one side, there are fold-down seats, and across the aisle are perching bars for support. The pathway from the doors to the storage area for bikes or strollers is unobstructed, making it easy to maneuver. This layout creates an open, airy interior, which may feel excessively cold in winter.

The walls in this area are once again clad in wood paneling, and there are no vertical bike racks. Bicycles can be leaned against the perching bars and secured with safety belts. Similar safety belts are provided for securing bicycles near the seats across the aisle. Vertical handles in the aisle offer support for passengers standing with their bikes. There are no overhead luggage racks in this area, which aligns with the fact that this is a commuter train intended for short trips.

Intermediate Levels

At both ends of the car, there are intermediate levels, accessible via stairs. These levels feature seats arranged in pairs with an aisle down the middle. One seating group of four includes a fold-out table. Near the stairs, there are fold-down seats as well as the previously mentioned perching bars. Passengers can monitor their journey on a screen located in this section.

In the intermediate cars, the restroom is located on this level. This restroom is much smaller than the one in the low-floor section. The sliding doors, light walls, and large mirrors inside help maximize the sense of space. It also features a slanted sink and a similar gray color scheme.

Walking Between Train Cars

The transition to the next car is through the intermediate level, via sliding doors that open at the press of a button. I like that there’s a symbol on the doors indicating that the next car has a quiet zone upstairs. The passageway is well-lit and similar to those in other integrated train units. The aisle is straight, even into the powered front car, where the passage is longer because you pass by the train’s service area. The walls are light-colored and well-lit, with a handrail for support. In the front car, behind the passage on the intermediate level, there are only fold-down seats and perching bars. A window shade is still included.

Upstairs in the Quiet Zone of Stadler KISS

The staircase is wide, and I appreciate the double handrail, designed for both adults and children. Even while climbing the stairs, you can see the screen displaying the train’s route.

At the top of the stairs, there are three seats facing backward toward the window. These are fully functional seats, adjustable and equipped with 230V and USB outlets beneath them. They also have foldable armrests between them. Thanks to this layout and the absence of any walls, the staircase and intermediate level are visible, ensuring a clear, open, and airy design that I find very appealing. From here, you can also see the route display screen.

The upper level of the car is typically lower and rounded, which might pose challenges for taller passengers, particularly when standing up from seats near the window, where heads often hit the overhead shelf. This issue has been partially addressed in this unit. Above the windows is longitudinal lighting that seamlessly transitions into a slanted storage shelf, following the curved ceiling. This design creates more headroom while still allowing easy access to stored items. The shelf is transparent and shallow, so you can clearly see and easily grab your bag or jacket. The lighting inside the shelf ensures you won’t overlook items like a forgotten umbrella. I also appreciate that the edges of the shelf are rubber-lined to protect against head injuries—a detail I can personally vouch for.

The seats upstairs are identical to those on the lower level, mostly arranged in airline-style rows with pairs of seats and an aisle in the middle. In the middle of the car, there are groups of four seats around a fold-out table, beyond which the seating orientation reverses. The seats are positioned close to the car walls, providing more space for passengers. However, if you’re of a larger build, you might prefer a seat away from the window. Window shades are also present.

Unfortunately, the fold-out wooden tables feel unnecessarily cheap. When closing, the panels loudly hit the base, and even during my inspection of the car, I heard this happen multiple times. Moreover, both ends of the upper level are designated as quiet zones.

Overall Impression of the KISS Unit

The upper level is clear, spacious, and efficient, making the most of a small footprint. However, it’s definitely not a place for large luggage—and honestly, who would carry heavy bags upstairs?

The KISS unit represents the blurring of lines between suburban trains, metro units, and even trams.

In the low-floor section, the design accommodates heavy passenger flow, mobility-impaired travelers, strollers, and bicycles, with specialized cars also equipped for wheelchair users. The interior is highly adapted to these needs. Spaces for bikes and strollers are open and unpartitioned from the doors, making it easier and quicker to handle them. Bicycles are secured by leaning them against fold-down seats or using safety belts, with no need for vertical lifting. Unlike other trains, there are no painted symbols on the floor for bikes or strollers—people just know where to place them.

The unit anticipates that some passengers will stand, like in a metro. Vertical handrails are provided for stability, and perching bars are included in areas where standing passengers might otherwise lean against the window frame. In the low-floor section, most seats are arranged in pairs facing each other, without tables, which further eases movement for older adults or pregnant passengers.

If you’re commuting a longer distance or need to work on a laptop, head upstairs. The upper level features pairs of seats facing each other with fold-out tables. The spacious staircase to the intermediate and upper levels is a highlight, with double handrails suitable for children. Both ends of the upper level are designated as quiet zones.

I really like the KISS unit. The combination of red and gray/black colors creates an elegant interior. Where walls are present, they are mostly transparent, ensuring everything is well-lit and visible. There are no unnecessary partitions, walls, or awkward corners. The Cityjet unit feels organized and safe, with everything within easy reach and a strong sense of security.

Suburban Unit 471 CityElefant

Let’s compare the double-decker suburban Cityjet unit with the CityElefant 471 trains operating in the Prague area. Of course, we must acknowledge the generational gap between these trains. Let’s explore the differences and how interior design has evolved over the years from a passenger’s perspective.

The CityElefant consists of a front car with second-class seating on the lower level and first-class seating upstairs, an intermediate car, and another front car, which includes a designated space for wheelchair users.

First-Class Seating

The first-class seats are arranged in pairs on one side of the aisle and single seats on the other, making them wider. They are not placed flush against the wall by the window, unlike those in the Cityjet. The fold-out tables here also seem quieter and better-designed. From a passenger’s perspective, the experience in first class feels superior to the new Stadler unit.

However, the upper ribbed luggage rack is less ideal, especially for taller passengers. The 230V outlets, oddly placed under the upper shelf, appear to be an afterthought, likely added during later operations.

A key question remains: what is the future of first-class seating in suburban units? In some regions, like South Moravia, first-class seating has been phased out, and new Moravia trains lack it altogether. Where it remains, first-class sections are often downgraded to second-class. Passengers seem to value peace and quiet most of all, which contrasts with Cityjet’s approach of forgoing class distinctions and designating quiet zones on the upper levels of its front cars.

Spaces for Bikes and Strollers

In the low-floor section of the CityElefant, there are spaces for bikes and strollers, as well as second-class seating. The bike section is enclosed by a wall and sliding doors. Behind these doors, there are fold-down seats and vertical bike racks on both sides. The sliding doors are especially appreciated in winter, as they help retain warmth—a big plus for parents with strollers. However, boarding and maneuvering in this section can be more difficult.

Where is bike transport headed? At InnoTrans, it was clear: on regional and suburban routes, passengers will simply hold onto their bikes or lean them against fold-down seats, securing them with safety belts. There will be no need to lift bikes into racks.

Second-Class Seating

The second-class seating area is separated from the entrance and bike section by a wall and doors. The seats are arranged in pairs facing each other, with small tables by the windows. Waste bins are located on the aisle-side of the seat frames, though the trend is shifting towards larger bins for sorting waste near the exit doors.

The seats are non-adjustable and lack armrests, meaning passengers sit quite closely together. Ribbed luggage racks are positioned above the seats, perpendicular to the windows, with hooks in the middle for hanging coats. Unfortunately, when you hang a jacket, it ends up hanging between you and your seatmate. The 230V outlets are integrated into the window frames.

In the intermediate cars, second-class seating is also available upstairs. These seats are identical to the lower level, except at the start of the section near the stairs, where five seats face backward toward the window. These seats lack armrests, so passengers here also sit closely together.

The low-floor restroom is wheelchair accessible. However, the lack of a changing table in the CityElefant is a drawback. The doors are wide and sliding, but the entry is from the aisle along the wall rather than from a more spacious vestibule, which would make it easier for wheelchairs or strollers to enter.

Intermediate Level

The staircase to the intermediate level and upper level in the CityElefant is narrow. Between the stairs and the wall, there’s a single wedge-shaped seat. Where the Cityjet features open space or a transparent wall, the CityElefant has a solid wall, making movement on the staircase in the older unit less comfortable and clear.

The intermediate level includes additional seating. In the intermediate cars, there are the standard four-seat arrangements (two pairs facing each other). However, in the front cars, where the intermediate level is smaller, the seats are arranged in a row along the wall, with passengers sitting tightly next to each other. The intermediate cars also feature a small restroom cabin, located in the aisle leading to the next car.

Narrow Passage with an Angled Corridor

In the CityElefant, the passage to the next car is via a corridor from the intermediate level. If you’re coming from the front car, which acts as a locomotive, the corridor is relatively long and even angled. The sliding doors connecting the cars are located at the end. This creates a somewhat uncomfortable space, and judging by the amount of graffiti, it’s also out of sight.

By comparison, in the newer Cityjet, this corridor runs straight down the center of the car, is shorter, and feels more open and accessible.

Wheelchair Accessibility

In the front car of the CityElefant, near the doors marked with a wheelchair symbol, there is a fold-out ramp for boarding and alighting from low platforms. While I’ve never seen it in operation, its size appears much larger than the ramp on the Cityjet. However, this difference primarily reflects the state and height of Czech platforms.

The external double-leaf doors have a 130 cm opening width and are operated by pressing a button. Wheelchair users can call for assistance using a button located on the exterior wall near the doors, just like on the Cityjet.

From the boarding area, sliding doors lead to the section with fold-down seats. This area is identical to the one for bikes and strollers but lacks bike racks.

Summary

The Cityjet feels spatially open and easy to navigate, while the older CityElefant is cluttered with partitions, walls, and nooks. The bright, open interior of the Cityjet creates a greater sense of safety compared to the closed-off sections of the CityElefant. The Stadler design also reduced the size of the mechanical components, allowing for more space in the intermediate levels of the front cars.

The open layout of the Cityjet improves passenger movement and encourages them to naturally move further into the car, similar to metro-style designs. Passengers standing in the Cityjet can hold onto color-highlighted poles or lean comfortably against perching bars.

For seated passengers, the biggest difference is that the Cityjet seats are not tightly packed together. They include foldable armrests, providing significantly more comfort. This feature applies to standard seats, as well as those located against the walls in the intermediate level and upstairs near the stairs.

The placement of 230V outlets in the CityElefant, the lack of USB ports, and the presence of numerous screens in the Cityjet reflecting real-time travel information reflect the design eras of these two trains. One feature I would definitely appreciate in the CityElefant is window shades, which the Cityjet already includes.

Source: RAILTARGET; Stadler