Berlin’s Nostalgic Transition: The Final Journey of the GDR’s Model 485 Trains

The bustling city of Berlin, known for its vibrant history and dynamic present, is witnessing a poignant moment in its public transport chronicles as it retires the last of the Model Series 485 trains, the venerable “Coke Cans,” from its S-Bahn network.

These trains are not just metal carriages on wheels; they are rolling museums, each bearing tales from the days when Berlin was a city divided.

Designed and built during the German Democratic Republic (GDR) era, these trains were a product of innovation and necessity. With the 485s first commissioned by the Deutsche Reichsbahn in the 1970s, they debuted onto the tracks at a transformative time when the Iron Curtain still loomed large. The Model 485s, with their distinctive crimson hues transitioning to the S-Bahn’s burgundy and ocher, were a common sight, weaving through East Berlin’s landscape and, post-fall of the Berlin Wall, across the united capital.

The technical prowess of these trains was a source of pride for East German engineering. Their lightweight aluminum build and the energy-efficient braking system were considered pioneering for the time, representing an early move towards sustainable transport solutions that are now industry standards. These innovations were matched by a design that maximized space and comfort, with external sliding doors and expansive windows.

However, the march of time and technology has rendered the beloved 485s obsolete. Their weaker motors and design vulnerabilities, particularly an air-cooling system prone to snow ingress, have necessitated an update. Modern trains boast improved accessibility features and compatibility with advanced safety systems, which the 485s lack. The design, once the epitome of modernity with its flat windshields and blocky structure, now stands as a stark contrast to the streamlined aesthetic of new arrivals like the 483/484 Series, which boast air conditioning, camera technology, and sleek interfaces for a more comfortable and reliable passenger experience.

November 12 emerged as a historical date for Berlin’s rail network, marking the Model 485s’ final service. It was a day of mixed emotions; while the city is poised for a future with state-of-the-art trains, it also pays homage to the past. S-Bahn Berlin orchestrated a dignified farewell for these iconic trains, arranging a series of events that culminated in a silent tribute at Schöneweide station, where the trains stood side by side in a ceremonial adieu.

As we recount the history woven into the fabric of these trains, we recall the Hans Beimler factory where they were born, named after a celebrated anti-fascist figure. The factory, which once produced a wide array of goods, witnessed the tumult of Germany’s history firsthand, from the GDR era to its eventual absorption by larger corporations post-reunification.

In a nod to sustainability and sentimental value, S-Bahn Berlin offers a piece of history for enthusiasts to own by selling seats from the decommissioned trains. These artifacts serve as a tangible link to the past, repurposed as unique pieces of furniture and collector’s items. Additionally, one Model 485 will find a new home at the German Technology Museum, ensuring that future generations can appreciate this chapter of Berlin’s transit history.

The story of the Model 485 trains is a microcosm of Berlin’s own journey—a city that has continuously reinvented itself while honoring its past. The retirement of these trains marks not just the end of an era but also the continuation of a commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in public transport. As Berlin moves forward, the legacy of the 485s will remain a cherished part of its historical tapestry, remembered fondly by train enthusiasts and everyday commuters alike.