TS EN 15663

TS EN 15663 defines the reference masses used in railway applications so that design, testing, delivery acceptance, marking and operation can rely on a common mass language. It does not redesign rolling stock or replace component sizing rules; instead, it clarifies which mass concepts should be used as the basis for technical documentation and vehicle-state references.

Why reference mass definitions matter

In railway engineering, mass is a basic input to braking behaviour, traction performance, suspension loading and energy-related calculations. A clear reference-mass framework makes results comparable across vehicle types, suppliers and related standards. In this document, the defined approach also links the masses used for vehicle system components to the reference-mass conditions of this standard when associated standards are updated.

Vehicle groups covered by the standard

• High-speed and other long-distance trains
• Passenger vehicles other than high-speed and long-distance trains, including metro and tram vehicles
• Freight vehicles, including wagons and powered freight units
• Locomotives are treated as unloaded passenger vehicles

In general technical terms, this grouping helps ensure that the same mass concepts are interpreted consistently for different rail vehicle families. In vehicle specifications, the relevant group should be stated explicitly so that mass-based design and operational data are read in the correct context. The document focuses on the concepts of dead mass, design mass and operational mass as reference values for different vehicle states.