NS DDZ
| Industry | Rail transport |
|---|---|
| Predecessor | NS DD-AR (Dubbeldeksaggloregiomaterieel) |
| Founded | 1992 |
| Fate | Modernised from DD-AR to DDZ starting 2009 |
| Headquarters | Netherlands |
Area served | Netherlands |
| Products | Electric multiple unit trains (EMUs) |
| Parent | Nederlandse Spoorwegen |
NS DDZ (DubbelDekkerZonering) units were manufactured between 1992 and 1998 by Waggonfabrik Talbot (then part of Bombardier), De Dietrich Ferroviaire (currently Alstom DDF), and Adtranz, and are operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) within the Netherlands. This electric multiple unit, featuring concentrated traction, was supplied in two series: DDM-2 and DDM-3. Its trailer coaches are also compatible with a Class 1700 electric locomotive, enabling operation as a push-pull train. Previously designated as NS DD-AR (Dubbeldeksaggloregiomaterieel), these trains have undergone modernization since 2009 to elevate their service from Sprinter to Intercity standards.
Bvs (270)
The Bvs function as driving trailers positioned at both ends of each trainset, with a total of 79 coaches each measuring 26.89 meters in length. They provide seating for 120 second-class passengers: 64 on the upper level, 52 on the lower level, and 4 near the doors, along with onboard restroom facilities. These units are numbered from 270 7001 through 270 7079 and act as primary control cars within NS DDZ configurations.
Bv (280)
Designed to be coupled with ABv, Bv, mDDM coaches or a locomotive, Bv cars appear in quantities ranging from one to three per set—commonly one or two when paired with a Class 1700 locomotive, and up to three when combined with an mDDM. There are 103 such coaches, each spanning 26.40 meters, exclusively offering second-class accommodation with a total of 140 seats: 64 upstairs, 64 downstairs, and 12 near entry points. Their numbering ranges from 280 7201 to 280 7302 and includes coach number 280 7508.
Coach number 280 7508 was converted from mixed first and second class to solely second class seating, now accommodating 124 passengers; previously it bore the number 380 7508.
ABv (380)
Serving as connectors between Bv and Bvs coaches, each trainset incorporates one ABv coach. A total of 76 units exist, each measuring 26.40 meters in length, providing both first- and second-class seating: a combined total of 124 seats divided evenly across upper and lower decks—64 first-class seats and 60 second-class seats. The distribution is uniform on both levels with first class comprising 32 seats and second class comprising 24 seats per deck.
These coaches carry numbers from 380 7501 to 380 7507 and from 380 7509 through to 380 7577.
mDDM (390)
The mDDM are driving motor coaches linked to Bv cars; only half of the sets—50 in total—include an mDDM. Each measures 21.39 meters long and offers combined first- and second-class seating: specifically, there are 16 first-class seats and 48 second-class seats (64 total), all located on the upper deck since electrical components occupy the lower deck space. Sets equipped with mDDM units have been refurbished into DDZ trains and no longer operate under the DD-AR classification.
These units are numbered from 390 7701 to 390 7750.
Formations
- A multiple unit configuration consisting of Bvs + ABv + Bv + mDDM accommodates seating for up to 448 passengers; the set numbers begin with "78xx," corresponding to the final two digits of the Bvs coach number.
- A push-pull train made up of Bvs + ABv + Bv + Bv + Class 1700 locomotive can seat up to 588 passengers; its set numbers start with "74xx," matching the last two digits of the associated Bvs coach.
Modernisation from DD-AR to DDZ (NID)
Starting in 2009, NedTrain initiated a modernization program for approximately 240 DD-AR coaches—including all fifty mDDMs—from an original fleet totaling 308 units; the remaining sixty-eight were scheduled for withdrawal or sale.
This refurbishment converted them into contemporary Intercity trains under the Nieuwe Intercity Dubbeldekker (NID) initiative, branded as DDZ (DubbelDekkerZonering). The redesign introduced quiet upper decks aimed at passengers seeking a work-friendly environment alongside more vibrant lower decks intended for leisure travelers. The upgraded fleet consists of fifty EMUs: thirty sets configured as ABvs + Bv + ABv + mBs (with mBs representing mDDM), plus twenty sets arranged as ABvs + Bv + ABv + Bv + ABv + mBs.
The inaugural modernized EMU entered service in 2012, with full completion by late 2014. Following this update, older Class 1700 locomotives numbered between units 1701 and1729 were retired since every NID train includes an mDDM power car.
On December 3, 2020, these trains were temporarily removed from service due to unexplained vibrations and noise occurring near speeds of approximately100 km/h. Investigations identified uneven wheel wear caused by brake pad issues as the root cause. Maintenance procedures were revised accordingly, incorporating real-time monitoring systems designed to detect early signs of wear. The phased reintroduction of DDZ trains began on December 6, 2021.
Reactivation
In November 2013, NS brought the remaining DDAR units back into operation to mitigate a shortage of trains caused by complications with the HSL. By December 2014, nineteen new DDAR train sets were assembled, each consisting of three coaches coupled with a 1700 series locomotive. These trains received light refurbishments at Haarlem prior to entering service.
Services operated
By 2018, DDZ trains were frequently deployed on various Intercity and Sprinter routes, with occasional use on additional lines.
Details
| Series | Construction Period | Number Produced | First Class Capacity | Second Class Capacity | Overall Seating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bvs – 270 | 1992–1994 | 79 | 0 | 120 | 120 |
| Bv – 280 | 103 | 140 | 140 | ||
| ABv – 280 | 76 | 64 | 60 | 124 | |
| mDDM – 390 | 1997–1998 | 50 | 16 | 48 | 64 |