SBB and Siemens: 116 new trains for Ticino

Context

In brief

• 116 new trains for suburban traffic
• 2 billion francs contract
• Service start from 2031

Key facts

• What: 116 new double-decker trains
• When: Service start from 2031
• Where: Ticino and Romandy
• Who: SBB and Siemens
• Amount: 2 billion francs

SBB and Siemens signed on Thursday the contract for 116 new double-decker trains destined for suburban traffic. The total value of the agreement is two billion francs. The Thurgau-based competitor Stadler Rail had filed an appeal against the tender, but subsequently withdrew it.

The agreement provides for the supply of 116 six-car trains of the Desiro DoSto type, with an option for another 84. Project management, testing and commissioning will take place in Switzerland, while the carriages will be built in Germany. Siemens Mobility, the industrial giant's division active in the railway sector, has around 6,000 employees in Switzerland and is investing 110 million francs in a new site in Wallisellen, in the canton of Zurich.

The new trains, which will enter service from 2031, will be primarily destined for the Zurich S-Bahn network (95 trains) and Romandy (21 trains). With around 540 seats, they offer a significantly higher capacity compared to the first-generation models they will replace. Passengers will have 10% more seats and 30% more standing room.

Impact on suburban traffic

The introduction of these new trains represents a significant step for improving suburban traffic in Ticino and Romandy. The greater capacity of the new trains will allow a larger number of passengers to be accommodated, thus reducing overcrowding and improving travel comfort. Furthermore, the increase in standing room will offer greater flexibility during peak hours.

Comparison with previous models

The new Desiro DoSto trains offer a significantly higher capacity compared to first-generation models. With 540 seats and a 30% increase in standing room, passengers will be able to enjoy a more comfortable journey. Furthermore, advanced technology and state-of-the-art safety systems will ensure a safer and more pleasant travel experience.

Purchase procedures and project management

Project management, testing and commissioning of the new trains will take place in Switzerland, thus ensuring high quality control and greater efficiency. The carriages will be built in Germany, but project supervision and final testing phases will be managed by the Swiss subsidiary of Siemens Mobility. This approach ensures that part of the added value remains in Switzerland, supporting the local economy and creating new job opportunities.

Investments and future development

Siemens Mobility is investing 110 million francs in a new site in Wallisellen, in the canton of Zurich. This investment represents a further step towards the development of railway infrastructure in Switzerland and underlines the company's commitment to improving public transport. With around 6,000 employees in Switzerland, Siemens Mobility continues to play a key role in the railway sector, contributing to economic growth and job creation.

Conclusions

The agreement between SBB and Siemens for the supply of 116 new double-decker trains represents an important step for improving suburban traffic in Ticino and Romandy. With greater capacity and advanced technologies, the new trains will offer a more comfortable and safe travel experience for passengers. Furthermore, Siemens Mobility's investment in a new site in Wallisellen underlines the company's commitment to supporting the local economy and creating new job opportunities.

Operational details

Analysis of Practical Implications

The introduction of the new Desiro DoSto trains will have a significant impact on suburban traffic in Ticino and Romandy. With greater capacity and advanced technologies, these trains will offer an improved travel experience for passengers.

Greater Capacity and Comfort

The new trains offer approximately 540 seats, a 10% increase compared to first-generation models. Additionally, 30% more standing room will allow for more passengers to be accommodated during peak hours. This capacity improvement will reduce overcrowding and enhance travel comfort, making public transport more attractive for commuters.

Advanced Technologies and Safety

The new trains are equipped with advanced technologies that ensure a safer and more pleasant travel experience. Cutting-edge safety systems, such as automatic brakes and obstacle detection systems, will reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall railway safety. Furthermore, the use of lightweight materials and advanced energy technologies will contribute to reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

Economic and Employment Impact

Siemens Mobility's investment in a new site in Wallisellen represents a further step towards the development of railway infrastructure in Switzerland. This investment will create new job opportunities and support the local economy, contributing to the economic growth of the canton of Zurich and Switzerland as a whole. Additionally, the management of the project, testing, and commissioning of the new trains will take place in Switzerland, ensuring high-quality control and greater efficiency.

Comparison with Other Regions

The introduction of the new Desiro DoSto trains in Ticino and Romandy represents an important step in improving public transport in these regions. Comparing with other Swiss regions, such as Zurich and Geneva, which have already adopted similar technologies, a positive trend towards the adoption of higher-capacity trains and advanced technologies can be observed. This trend contributes to improving the quality of public transport and making Swiss cities more sustainable and livable.

Future Scenarios

With the entry into service of the new trains starting in 2031, various future scenarios can be envisioned for suburban traffic in Ticino and Romandy. An increase in the number of passengers could lead to a greater demand for additional services, such as night connections or on-demand transport services. Furthermore, the adoption of advanced technologies could pave the way for new innovation opportunities, such as the use of autonomous vehicles or digital ticketing systems.

Conclusions

The analysis of the practical implications of the introduction of the new Desiro DoSto trains highlights the numerous benefits for suburban traffic in Ticino and Romandy. With greater capacity, advanced technologies, and a positive economic impact, these trains represent an important step towards improving public transport and the sustainability of Swiss cities.

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Key points

Concrete actions for commuters

With the introduction of the new Desiro DoSto trains, commuters in Ticino and Romandy can expect an improved travel experience. Here are some concrete actions they can take to prepare themselves.

Trip planning

Commuters should start planning their trips in advance, taking into account the new lines and service schedules. They can consult the websites of the SBB and local railway companies for updated information on schedules and routes. Additionally, it is advisable to download the official SBB apps to receive real-time notifications of any delays or schedule changes.

Ticket purchase

To avoid queues and delays, commuters can purchase tickets in advance through the official SBB apps or the websites of the railway companies. They can buy single tickets, monthly or annual passes, depending on their individual needs. Additionally, they can use credit cards or e-wallets for quick and secure payment.

Use of advanced technologies

The new Desiro DoSto trains are equipped with advanced technologies that improve the travel experience. Commuters can use the SBB apps to access real-time information on train schedules, traffic conditions, and any service interruptions. Additionally, they can use digital ticketing systems to avoid having to buy paper tickets.

Preparation for possible delays

Despite technological improvements, delays or service interruptions can still occur. Commuters should prepare for such eventualities, bringing books, music, or other entertainment to pass the time productively. Additionally, it is advisable to have a bottle of water and a snack to avoid having to buy expensive food at the stations.

Participation in feedback programs

The SBB and local railway companies are always looking for ways to improve the service they offer. Commuters can participate in feedback programs, providing comments and suggestions on how to improve the travel experience. This can include filling out online surveys, participating in discussion groups, or reporting specific problems through the official apps.

Use of additional services

In addition to standard transport services, the SBB and local railway companies offer a range of additional services that can improve the travel experience. These can include luggage transport services, assistance for passengers with disabilities, and on-board catering services. Commuters should inform themselves about these services and use those that best suit their needs.

Conclusions

The introduction of the new Desiro DoSto trains represents an opportunity for commuters in Ticino and Romandy to improve their travel experience. By following the concrete actions described above, commuters can best prepare for the arrival of the new trains and enjoy a more comfortable and safe journey. Additionally, by participating in feedback programs and using the additional services offered by the SBB, commuters can contribute to further improving public transport and making Swiss cities more sustainable and livable.

Find out more about the new trains and plan your trip with our schedule calculator

Source: tvsvizzera.it