Retro Metro Trains Around the World: Vienna U-Bahn Type U

Simmering-Graz-Pauker Type U

The Type U, also known as the “Silver Arrow,” refers to the first generation of Vienna Underground trains. Manufactured by Simmering-Graz-Pauker from 1972 to 1997, these trains became the backbone of Vienna’s Underground network. They operated across the entire system, powered by a third-rail system.

The classification includes U, U1 (or U11), and U2 variants.

The successor generation is the Type V, which entered production in 2000. Since June 2023, the remaining U1/U11/U2 trains have gradually been replaced by the new Type X trains built by Siemens.

Overview

The trainsets consist of double motor cars, meaning two permanently coupled electric multiple-unit cars, each with a driver’s cab at one end. The smallest operational unit consists of one double motor car. A short train consists of two double units, while a long train consists of three. However, the short-train configuration was abandoned as passenger numbers increased, and Vienna‘s network subsequently operated uniformly with six-car trains consisting of three double units.

The two cars in a double unit are not identically equipped. Components such as the switching equipment, compressor, battery, converter and other systems were distributed between the two cars to ensure proper weight distribution. Externally, the difference can be identified by the car numbers: one 2000-series car and one 3000-series car form a double unit.

In 1986, an upgraded generation of trains appeared: the Type U1, later known as U11. These trains are almost identical in appearance to the original vehicles. They featured completely redesigned bogies with radially adjustable axles, as well as a state-of-the-art three-phase AC drive for each individual axle, including the necessary power electronics. This also made regenerative braking possible.