1. The “Open Saloon” Standard (Central Aisle Layout)
UIC 567-6 defines the characteristics for “B-Type” coaches designed with a Central Aisle (Open Plan) layout, accepted for international cross-border traffic (RIC).
Unlike the compartment-based Type X or Y, the B-Type architecture prioritizes passenger capacity and visibility. This standard ensures that open-plan coaches maintain the same level of safety and interoperability as their compartment counterparts while offering a different passenger experience suited for both long-distance and high-density routes.
2. Structural & Capacity Advantages
The shift from compartments to the B-Type Open Saloon layout is driven by operational efficiency.
| Feature | Compartment Coach (Type X/Y) | Open Saloon (UIC 567-6 B-Type) |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Side corridor + Isolated 6-seat rooms. | Central aisle + 2+1 or 2+2 seating rows. |
| Capacity Efficiency | Lower (Lost space in corridors). | High (+15-20%). Uses the full width of the car for seating. |
| Passenger Flow | Slower boarding/alighting. | Faster flow due to wider central aisle visibility. |
| Luggage Storage | Limited to overhead racks in compartment. | Overhead racks + End-of-car luggage stacks. |
3. Interior Configuration & Ergonomics
UIC 567-6 dictates specific dimensions to ensure passenger comfort despite the higher density:
- Seat Pitch (Fictional/Uni-directional): The standard typically mandates a minimum pitch (e.g., 900mm – 950mm for 2nd class) to ensure knee room in “Airline Style” seating.
- Window Alignment: A critical engineering KPI in this standard is the “Seat-to-Window Match”. Unlike budget airlines, UIC B-Type coaches aim to align seats with windows to prevent passengers from staring at a blank wall (“Wall-View”).
- Aisle Width: Must be sufficient (approx. 500mm+) to allow the passage of catering trolleys (Minibar) while passengers are seated.
4. International Interoperability (RIC)
Even though the layout is open, these coaches must meet strict RIC (Regolamento Internazionale Carrozze) requirements:
- Multi-Voltage Heating: Must operate on all 4 UIC standard voltages (1000V/1500V/3000V) since open spaces lose heat faster than closed compartments upon door opening.
- Lighting: Requires uniform lux levels across the entire saloon (no dark spots), often necessitating continuous LED strip lighting concepts in modern retrofits.
Market Insight: B-Type coaches are the preferred choice for modern “InterCity” fleets because they offer a feeling of security (safety in numbers/visibility) compared to isolated compartments, which are becoming less popular in night trains.
