The era of high-speed traffic at Deutsche Bundesbahn began in the summer of 1991 with the ICE 1. For the first time, a completely new rail system was introduced with newly developed multiple units, special high-speed routes and an extensive timetable reform. The railcar concept with closed, wide gangways was groundbreaking for modern high-speed rail transport. The maximum speed of 280 km/h in regular operation and the high level of comfort revolutionized rail transport and secured important market shares in the competition with automobiles and airplanes.
