Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has awarded a significant contract to Siemens Mobility for the supply of up to 200 double-deck electric multiple units (EMUs). This decision, announced on November 7, has caused discontent among local rail supplier Stadler.
Contract Details and Specifications
The contract, valued at around SFr2 billion, encompasses the delivery of 95 EMUs intended for Zürich S-Bahn services, alongside 21 EMUs for the RER Vaud network and the RE33 route between Martigny and Annemasse. These new trains are set to be operational by the early 2030s, with an option for an additional 84 units to facilitate future service expansion.
Design and Features of the New Trains
- Maximum speed: 160 km/h
- Length: Approximately 150 meters
- Seating capacity: Around 540 seats
- First-class seats: About 20% adjustable, with folding tables and enhanced legroom
- Multipurpose areas for luggage, pushchairs, and bicycles (16 bikes accommodated with electric charging points)
- Facilities: Two toilets, with one being wheelchair accessible
- Accessibility: Low-floor entrances at all doors
- Information: Large screens and emergency help points for passenger assistance
SBB emphasizes that these new double-decker trains are tailored to the needs of both commuters and leisure travellers, offering convenience for urban routes while accommodating luggage and families effectively.
Procurement Process Overview
SBB initiated the tender process in June 2024, evaluating submitted bids on criteria such as costs, sustainability, and compliance with specifications. Ultimately, Siemens Mobility’s proposal was deemed the most advantageous, while Stadler expressed its disappointment with SBB’s decision.
Stadler’s Reaction
Stadler noted that their offer was only marginally higher, suggesting a price difference of just 0.6 percentage points based on a firm order of 116 trains plus options for 60. The company asserted its commitment to local production, supporting over 200 small and medium-sized enterprises in Switzerland.
Markus Bernsteiner, CEO of Stadler, expressed regret about the outcome, highlighting dissatisfaction among the company’s 6,000 employees who had anticipated being selected based on their proven technology and daily usage by SBB. Furthermore, Stadler has the option to contest the decision legally, although SBB has maintained that its previous awards have been upheld upon appeal.
As this development unfolds, further details from Siemens Mobility regarding the new trainsets will be shared once the contract is officially confirmed.
