In terms of technology, the vehicle stands out for its trimodal electric hybrid drive, which can be supplied with energy from the overhead contact line as well as from powerful underfloor traction batteries or from a diesel generator. This makes it completely self-sufficient when deployed and allows it to operate independently in smoke-filled tunnels to bring people to safety and extinguish burning vehicles, for example.
In an emergency, the rescue train can accommodate over 300 people, who are effectively protected from smoke gases inside thanks to the pressurisation of the entire train set (permanent slight overpressure) and the air conditioning system equipped with special filters. For firefighting purposes, the train has 40,000 litres of water and 1,000 litres of foam compound on board, which can be discharged via powerful extinguishing systems at either 10 bar (normal pressure for traditional firefighting) or 100 bar (spray mist for cooling or fire prevention).
The train is in two parts with a length of 68 metres, is accessible throughout and can travel at speeds of up to 160 km/h – in both directions. At ÖBB, it has been given the name “Servicejet” in reference to its versatility. It is used not only in emergencies, but also for regular service and maintenance work. It has enough power to tow damaged trains weighing up to 2,000 tonnes or to supply a defective train with electricity – even without an overhead contact line. Depending on the type of deployment, the vehicle can also be loaded with various configurations of roll containers, which are kept ready for use at the tunnel portals.