The line begins in Wuppertal Hauptbahnhof, then uses the branch line via Mettmann Stadtwald; then it runs through Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof branching off to Kaarst after passing through Neuss Hauptbahnhof. Its western terminus is Kaarster See. The line is operated using Integral S5D95 DMUs at 20-minute intervals,[2] with only two trains an hour running between Mettmann and Wuppertal. On weekends, the whole line is operated at 30-minute intervals.[3]
Until 2021, Bombardier Talent DMUs were used, which were replaced by second-hand Integral trains from the Bavarian Oberland Railway.[4] Electrification of the non-electrified sections is underway, but delayed. The planned electric Stadler FLIRT trains have already been built, and are currently used by Abellio Rail NRW on other lines of the Rhine-Ruhr S-Bahn.[5][6] A western extension from Kaarster See via Willich to Viersen is planned.[7]
History
Services commenced between Mettmann and Kaarst on 26 September 1999 at 60 minute frequencies,[8] increased to 20 minutes from 28 May 2000.[9] On 13 December 2020, the line was extended from Mettmann Stadtwald via Wuppertal-Vohwinkel to Wuppertal Hbf.[10]
