SWITZERLAND: The first of ten new-generation Stadler FINK trains ordered by Zentralbahn has reached Meiringen for testing, launching the operator’s largest-ever fleet procurement ahead of a December service launch.

First new-generation Stadler FINK train for Zentralbahn at Meiringen
The first new-generation Stadler FINK train at Meiringen. Photo: Zentralbahn.

Stadler transported the train from Bussnang to Interlaken Ost overnight on Aug. 12-13, Zentralbahn said, according to Nau.ch. Older-generation FINK trains already run on Zentralbahn’s network, making this specifically the first of the new generation to arrive — the train must prove itself on both conventional track and the steeper rack-and-pinion sections of the meter-gauge line before it can carry a single passenger.

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Two drive systems, one set of tests

The testing programme at Meiringen reflects the FINK’s ability to operate on both conventional adhesion track and rack railway sections — engineers will check handling, braking performance, the functioning of the rack-and-pinion and adhesion drive systems, vehicle control, and the train protection system. Each unit takes around ten months to build and seats 111 passengers in second class and 17 in first. The wider fleet programme also includes seven new ADLER trains, due from late 2027; together they represent the largest procurement in Zentralbahn’s 21-year history.

What to watch

The immediate milestone is final approval following type testing in Meiringen. If cleared on schedule, FINK 1 should enter passenger service on Dec. 13 as Zentralbahn launches its new half-hourly Lucerne–Engelberg timetable. The remaining nine units will then enter service gradually, followed by the seven ADLER trains from late 2027.

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