Definition
U55 was a short, independent line of the Berlin U-Bahn rapid transit system, operating as a shuttle service between Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) and Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate). It functioned from its opening in 2009 until its integration into the extended U5 line in 2020.
Overview
The U55 line comprised a single 1.4‑kilometre (0.87 mi) tunnel with three stations: Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Bundestag, and Brandenburger Tor. It was constructed as part of the larger "U5 extension" project, intended to connect the eastern and western halves of Berlin’s central U‑belt. Because the eastern section of the U5 (from Alexanderplatz to Ostbahnhof) remained under construction, U55 operated as a standalone shuttle to provide service to the newly completed central stations. The line used standard Berlin U‑Bahn rolling stock (type A and B trains) and was fully automated with driver‑less operation.
Etymology/Origin
The designation “U55” follows the Berlin U‑Bahn naming convention, where “U” stands for “Untergrundbahn” (underground railway) and the number indicates the line’s planned route within the network. The number 55 was assigned to reflect its provisional status as a branch of the future extended U5 line, rather than indicating a permanent, independent line.
Characteristics
- Length: 1.4 km (0.87 mi)
- Stations: 3 (Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Bundestag, Brandenburger Tor)
- Track gauge: Standard gauge (1435 mm)
- Electrification: 750 V DC third rail
- Operation: Driver‑less, automated shuttle service with a headway of 5–10 minutes during peak periods.
- Rolling stock: Two‑car sets of Class IK (type B) trains, later supplemented by Class H (type A) units.
- Accessibility: All stations equipped with elevators and tactile guidance systems for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Integration: In December 2020, the U55 tunnel and stations were incorporated into the newly extended U5 line, creating a continuous east‑west route from Hönow to Berlin Hauptbahnhof.
Related Topics
- Berlin U-Bahn – the larger rapid transit system of which U55 was a part.
- U5 (Berlin U-Bahn) – the line that absorbed the U55 corridor after the extension project’s completion.
- Berlin Hauptbahnhof – the main railway station in Berlin, serving as a major interchange for regional, national, and international services.
- Brandenburger Tor – a historic monument and key U‑Bahn station located near the Tiergarten and the government district.
- U-Bahn automation – the implementation of driver‑less train operation in Berlin’s network.
- Berlin public transport fare zones (VBB) – the tariff system governing ticketing for U‑Bahn, S‑Bahn, tram, and bus services.