© trainspo.comSiemens BVG A3L
Built by ABB, AEG, O&K, Siemens, WU
Overview of the Siemens BVG A3L
Discover the BVG A3L, an iconic electric multiple unit (EMU) that has been a cornerstone of public transport in Berlin since its introduction.
Manufactured between 1968 and 1973 by leading companies like ABB, AEG, O&K, Siemens, and WU, this series is renowned for its sturdy build and dependable performance.
With a top speed of 62 km/h and seating for 52 passengers, the BVG A3L is perfectly suited for navigating the urban landscape.
These trains, configured as 2-car sets, measure 25.66 meters in length and operate on standard gauge tracks.
Powered by 750 V DC via a third rail, they deliver a substantial 400 kW of power for efficient city travel.
The BVG A3L has played a vital role in Berlin's public transportation network, connecting the city's residents for decades.
Siemens BVG A3L technical specifications
| Value | Imperial / US | |
|---|---|---|
| Series | BVG A3 | |
| Built by | ABB, AEG, O&K, Siemens, WU · 1968–1973118 units | |
| Top speed | 62 km/h39 mph | |
| Power output | 400 kW536 hp | |
| Electric systems |
| |
| Track gauge | 1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in | |
| UIC axle arrangement | B'B'+B'B' | |
| Formation | 2 cars | |
| Capacity | 52 seats | |
| Car length | 12.53 m41 ft 1 in | |
| Train length | 25.66 m84 ft 2 in | |
| Width | 2.3 m7 ft 7 in | |
| Height | 3.18 m10 ft 5 in |
Operators of the Siemens BVG A3L
Railway companies that have operated the BVG A3L, with the class designation used by each of them.
| Operator | Class | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe | BVG A3L | Germany |
Siemens BVG A3L photos
Photos © their respective authors, shared on trainspo.com. They may show liveries or variants that differ from the specifications above.
More electric multiple units from Siemens

Siemens
HHA Type A
Electric multiple unit
60 km/h

Siemens
A3E
Electric multiple unit
62 km/h · 712 kW

Siemens
Bursaray B80
Electric multiple unit
70 km/h

Siemens
Type T
Electric multiple unit
80 km/h

Siemens
VAG DT1
Electric multiple unit
80 km/h

Siemens
556.53
Electric multiple unit
1979 · 60 km/h

Siemens
BVG A3L82
Electric multiple unit
1982 · 60 km/h

Siemens
SD-400
Electric multiple unit
105 km/h · 597 kW
Similar electric multiple units from other manufacturers

Mitsubishi
Yurikamome 7000
Electric multiple unit
60 km/h

Tokyu Car
YNT 2000
Electric multiple unit
60 km/h

Hitachi
Nagoya Subway 5000
Electric multiple unit
65 km/h

Westwaggon
StH ET 20.111
Electric multiple unit
320 kW

Alna
Hankyu 3300
Electric multiple unit
1967–1979

Metro Cammell
LU 1967 Stock
Electric multiple unit
1967–1969

Metro Cammell
LU C69
Electric multiple unit
1967–1977

Pullman
Red Line Series 1
Electric multiple unit
1969–1970