Switzerland High-Speed Train Fleet Expansion Plans

Swiss Federal Railways plans to acquire forty high-speed trains to strengthen European transportation links. Switzerland aims to improve international travel by expanding its fleet for routes to Italy and France. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Switzerland High-Speed Train Fleet to Meet Growing Demand

Train travel demand between Switzerland and neighboring countries continues rising, prompting fleet expansion efforts. Swiss Railways seeks to modernize services and accommodate increasing cross-border passenger traffic.

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High-Speed Rail Infrastructure Challenges in Switzerland

Current Swiss railway tracks do not support internationally recognized high-speed travel above 300 km/h. However, domestic trains operate at a maximum of 200 km/h, limiting high-speed operations.

New high-speed trains will reach maximum speeds only on foreign rail networks with suitable infrastructure. Switzerland will need significant upgrades to enable true high-speed rail within its territory.

Procurement Strategy for Switzerland High-Speed Train Fleet

To clarify procurement requirements, Swiss Railways published two tenders on the Simap platform. The company aims to determine the best approach for acquiring and maintaining high-speed trains.

Swiss Railways considers two procurement models for this fleet expansion project. One option involves purchasing trains with a fifteen-year maintenance contract included.

Alternatively, leasing high-speed trains under a fifteen-year operational agreement remains under consideration. Both options require careful financial analysis before moving forward.

The company will hold an information exchange in April or May with potential suppliers. Swiss Railways invited rolling stock manufacturers and financial institutions to discuss procurement details.

A formal tendering process is expected to launch in 2026 after consultations with industry stakeholders. Swiss Railways aims to finalize agreements ensuring smooth implementation of this high-speed train project.

Source: www.swissinfo.ch

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