German state operator Deutsche Bahn is revamping their trains to include new cabins designed for greater privacy. These compartments will feature frosted glass where passengers can take private video calls or ‘cuddle’. Referred to as ‘smooch cabins’, these new compartments will be introduced on the Intercity Express (ICE) trains. The two-meter by 70-centimeter cabins can fit a maximum of two people and can transform into personal spaces with increased privacy at the push of a button.
The purpose of these private compartments is to allow passengers to have confidential phone or video conversations while traveling. Deutsche Bahn board member Michael Peterson stated that the cabins will offer a protected environment for private discussions. The cabins are currently being tested by different types of passengers to gauge their effectiveness and comfort. Additionally, German newspaper Bild held a poll to choose a name for the new seating, with ‘smooch cabin’ being the winning name suggested by readers.
In addition to the private cabins, Deutsche Bahn has announced other upgrades to their services. They will introduce digital screens that allow passengers to mark their seat as occupied if they leave to use a private compartment, restaurant car, or toilet. This feature has been called a ‘digital towel’, referencing the common practice of German tourists reserving loungers with towels. The operator also plans to install scent buttons beside doorways and station lifts that will release a relaxing fragrance.
The overall revamp of Deutsche Bahn’s services is part of a comprehensive multi-billion euro plan to modernize their network. The company’s own network status report has described the railway system as ‘old’ and ‘prone to failure’. Therefore, they have pledged to deliver a ‘railway fit for the future’ by 2030, incorporating new amenities such as AI technology to improve engineering works. These upgrades are aimed at improving the overall passenger experience and making train travel more comfortable and convenient for all passengers.
