RED WAGON
Berlin subways are often crowded. In order to get everyone from A to B on time at any time of the day, more space is needed on the subway. The Red Wagon offers more standing room and additional space for people with wheelchairs, electric vehicles, strollers, bicycles and other items.
The older BVG (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe) subways have a step at the entrance. Wheelchair users therefore need a ramp and the help of the driver to reach the train. In these subways, the Red Wagon should be in the first subway wagon. (1)
All new subways of the BVG (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe) are accessible at ground level. With these subways, the Red Wagon or the Red Area can be in several wagons or areas. (1)
The different colors of the subway wagons help passengers to position themselves correctly on the platform.
In the interior of the Red Wagon, the seats have been removed to ensure maximum capacity. The passage was widened to reduce traffic jam and improve traffic flow. The handrails offer places to lean on. Bicycles are simply and quickly leaned against the side walls. The interior has no reserved spaces for wheelchairs, electric vehicles, strollers, bicycles, scooters or anything else. The passengers choose a free space.
If the parking spaces become scarce, the following prioritization should apply:
1. People with wheelchairs or electric vehicles (+ 1 person)
2. People with strollers
3. Standing people (+ dog)
4. People with bicycles, scooters and other objects
People with wheelchairs, electric vehicles and strollers should apply the brakes before starting their journey. It is recommended for wheelchair and electric vehicle drivers sit with your back facing the direction of travel.
The Red Wagon was designed in collaboration with Laurens Martin Keil (MA art-, media scientist and philosopher).
2021
Source 1: Barrier-free travel – your question, our answers
Link: https://www.bvg.de/en/service-and-support/barrier-free-travel/faq (call 03.10.2021)
