Legendary GDR train VT 18.16: Does he finally come to Neubrandenburg?

Legendary GDR train VT 18.16: Does he finally come to Neubrandenburg?

In recent years, a very special project has accumulated in the railway world: the restoration of the legendary VT 18.16, which was once a highlight on the GDR rail rails. The association "SVT Görlitz gGmbH" brought back to life with a lot of commitment and over 80,000 hours of volunteer work. Now everyone hopes for the first trips to start in September. It remains to be seen whether the train will come to Neubrandenburg. Nevertheless, there is the possibility that he will soon cross the picturesque landscape of the Mecklenburg lakes, such as [nordkurier.de] (https://www.nordkurier.de/regional/neubrandenburg/legendaererer-ddr-zug-zug-kramt-er- after-neubrandenburg-3727633).

The ceremony for the restart of the VT 18.16 in Halberstadt attracted around 200 guests, including members of the association and numerous non -profit supporters. This event was not only a symbol for the return of a historical means of transport, but also proof of the meeting of many volunteers and sponsors who pulled together together. Mario Lieb, the head of SVT Görlitz gGmbH, has expressed hope that the train can be put into operation in the fourth quarter of the year - after two years of delay. "A train for Central Germany" cost a total budget of seven million euros, which was raised by donations and funding, as mdr.de reported.

a piece of history on rails

The VT 18.16 was traveling between Berlin, Dresden, Prague and Vienna many years ago and therefore not only inspired German cities, but also international travelers. His return not only promises nostalgic memories, but also real travel experiences in the original charm. The first trips from Dresden can currently be booked, including special trips via the Berlin Foreign Ring. In the future, trips to Vienna and Copenhagen could even be planned, which makes the project even more exciting.

It is particularly impressive that the train, which was parked in 2003, was restored with great attention to detail. Work on the B-drive head is currently still ongoing, while the A-drive head can already drive from its own engine power. The new compressed air hoses for the brake system and the insertion of the window panes are what gives the train the finishing touch, according to the responsible persons. The Reichsbahn was a central institution in the GDR traffic-founded in 1945 and operator of many important routes.

The trip continues

For everyone who is interested in the trips, SVT Görlitz will also offer opportunities to charter the train. The daily rent is 7,500 euros, plus variable costs for operation, personnel and route costs. The association is in discussions with potential partners for ticket sales, but is asked to refrain from booking requests for the time being until all details on ticket sales are known.

The progress of the restoration and news about VT 18.16 are regularly announced on the website of the association and its Facebook page. Another highlight will be the presentation of the train at the Heizhausfest in Chemnitz in August. So there is a lot going on in the world of traditional trains, and the rail friends can stay excited!