IC 2000 was the first double-deck train in use on a nationwide scale. Previously, most, if not all, double-deck trains, belonged to the Zürich S-Bahn network. The IC 2000 typically has a dining or a bistro car, and a snacks trolley service on the upper level throughout the train set. Both the first and second class coaches feature luggage racks on both decks; in addition, small suitcases can be stored under the seats. In November 2013, the first Starbucks café coaches on SBB-CFF-FFS were launched using two refurbished IC 2000 dining cars, used on a 9-month trial basis on the St. Gallen – Geneva route. The driving trailerat the beginning or at the end of the train is either a family coach with a special play area on the upper level or has a family zone, also on the upper level. In either case, there is space on the lower deck of the driving trailer for pushchairs, bicycles, and skis. Trains with family coaches are marked FA in the timetables. 75 first class coaches are equipped with power sockets for charging laptops etc. Trains with such business zones are marked BZ in the timetables and the coaches themselves can be identified by a laptop icon. On certain routes, passengers are able to use mobile broadband internet access for an additional fee. The business zone coaches can be typically found behind the locomotive. The usage of the IC 2000 is now very commonplace in Switzerland. Its "cowlike" black-and-white design, and red doors, make it instantly recognisable. The train exterior was designed by Pininfarina, to match the style of the Re 460 locomotive used with the trainset. Due to the frequent use of mobile phones, in December 2008, SBB introduced "quiet zones" in both classes, where "conversation and discussion, even if conducted quietly; listening to music or the radio, even using headphones; using audio and video applications on laptops; and using mobile phones" are prohibited. However, after one year quiet zones have been restricted to some first class coaches only.
IC 2020 Project
In December 2016, Swiss Federal Railways initiated the largest refurbishment project up-to-date. Entire fleet of IC 2000s will be refurbished by the end of 2024. Refurbished IC 2000 coaches are expected to operate until 2043, combined with refurbished Re 460 locomotives, that are being reassembled in SBB's Yverdon-les-Bains facility. After the renovation IC 2000 coaches will be rebranded as IC 2020. Exterior has different look compared to current fleet ; coaches are pure white, accompanied by black band located under ground floor which is extending to undercarriage. A red stripe that has the same color as SBB logo is following the entire set, then covering the front section of the driving car. Refurbished coaches have also different interior compared to IC 2000 fleet. In contrast to dark tones that current coaches have, refurbished interior have mainly lighter tones and materials. 40 first class coach will receive conference tables for business meetings which will replace standard 4/2 person compartments. Renovated coaches are put to service for further testing on operational routes. These coaches are prototypes and usually mixed with IC 2000 coaches. The refurbishment is taking place in SBB Olten facility.
