NVR number 61 81 70-70 003-2 WLABee identifies a highly fascinating, historic piece of European railway heritage that is still actively cruising the night train network. This vehicle is a classic Type P sleeper coach built entirely out of unpainted, ribbed stainless steel (Inox).
This coach belongs to a famous series designed by Albert Pillepich for the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits (CIWL). Originally constructed in approximately 1955–1956, these cars were modeled after American "Streamliner" luxury trains using the Budd company's patent for ribbed stainless-steel bodywork. They never needed painting, remaining bright silver. The Type P was revolutionary because it managed to squeeze 20 compact individual compartments into a single car by using an ingenious, alternating "staggered" upper and lower geometric layout.
CIWL sold the fleet to national railways in the 1970s. This specific unit was acquired and modernized by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), before making its way into the hands of private leasing firms. Over recent seasons, it has been operated and maintained by German private operators like GfF (Gesellschaft für Fahrzeugtechnik) and chartered through premium providers like TRI Train Rental.
Bruxelles Midi Station. 12/03/2026.

Photo by Guido Allieri (guido@allieri.com) - www.allieri.com