NMBS/SNCB
ANNUAL SHOWCASE 2019 Railway Interiors International 19
IN NUMBERS
492 M6 cars still
in operation
445 M7 cars
ordered, with options
for 917 more
30-40 year projected
service life, up to 50
with good maintenance
58 fi rst-class seats
and 74 second-class
seats in AB cars
140 second-class
seats in B cars
100 second-class
seats in BDx cars
52 second-class
seats in Bmx cars
35mm (1.38in)
additional legroom
200 litre
underseat storage
EXTERNAL FORCES
The brief included the M7’s
exterior design. Yellow Window
sought a friendly appearance
that is an evolution of the
NMBS/SNCB brand style
and, just like the interiors,
would endure throughout
the train’s service life. The
design also focussed on clear
communication with customers.
Logos and graphics will make
it easy for passengers to find
first class, and where to board
with wheelchairs, prams,
bicycles or large luggage. TIMELINE
1999 2010 2015 January
2018
December
2019
M6 frame
contract signed
Last M6 cars
delivered
Contract signed
for M7 cars
Manufacturing
begins on M7 cars
First M7 cars
to be delivered
an open, airy feel. “It’s always extremely difficult
to design a double deck where the feeling of
space on the upper floor – as you pass through
tunnels – can become claustrophobic,” says
Enthoven. “We put the glass a little bit lower
to give a greater sense of space.”
Leading lights
While the old cars are illuminated with
electroluminescent (EL) tubes, the new ones
will feature LED lighting. “We developed nicer
indirect lighting that brings modernity to the
trains, says Ridremont. “All of it is compatible
with the old cars.”
The LED lighting is also intended to
contribute to passenger wellness. “Many times
motion sickness is a reaction to the flickering
of the lights,” says Enthoven. “When you use
indirect light you don’t see that. It also gives
a tremendous impression of space.”
The designers also worked to give
passengers more than just an impression. The
new back-to-back seating yields 35mm (1.38in)
more legroom with ergonomic back supports,
curved headrests, armrests that fold back
completely into the seat frame, and integrated
handles that comply with new TSI standards.
In addition to luggage racks, there is also
approximately 200 litres storage capacity
under the seat. “One of the most important
considerations was where to put the luggage,
for people to feel secure,” says Enthoven.
Passengers can fit larger suitcases or small
folding bicycles. This open space underneath
the seat also makes it easier for cleaning crew
to maintain the cars’ appearance.
First-class touches
While the seat structure is the same in both
first and second class, and the interior is
harmonised with neutral colours, there is a
clear design distinction between the classes.
“It is not an extreme difference, but there
are details that make it feel more luxurious,”
explains Enthoven. “For example, the crossstitch
quilting on the first-class seats’ leather
covers is like what you might find in a Rolls-
Royce or BMW car.”
The first-class compartment also features
a Cozy Corner, a four-place booth separated
by a small padded partition wall to isolate
it from the sound of the main cabin. This
space also features larger foldable tables
and individual reading lamps.
MAIN: The first-class
compartment features
a Cozy Corner
LEFT INSET: The seat
structure is the same in
both first and second class
ABOVE RIGHT: The M7’s
exterior design is an
evolution of the NMBS/
SNCB brand style