Switzerland’s SBB Commits CHF 2 Billion to Siemens for Next-Gen Zurich Fleet

SBB has ordered Siemens Mobility double-deck trains for the Zurich s-Bahn network. The new contract is with Siemens Mobility Switzerland. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

According to Siemens, the agreement covers 116 six-car Desiro DoSto trains as an initial order. In addition, it includes an option for up to 84 additional trains. The contract is valued at around 2 billion Swiss Francs. The trains are due to enter service in 2031. Together, the firm order and option would cover as many as 200 trains.

Desiro DoSto trains for the Zurich s-Bahn network

The Desiro DoSto is designed for metropolitan operation. It is intended to provide more capacity, improved passenger comfort and sustainability-focused features. Each train will offer about 540 seats and eight multi-purpose areas. The multi-purpose areas support easier boarding and alighting. For example, on heavily used lines, the trains are expected to provide more capacity. This includes roughly 30% more standing room and 10% more seating.

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Low-floor entrances at every door will support access for all passengers. In 1st class, the trains will include adjustable seats. Also, they will provide fold-out tables and greater seat pitch. Power outlets will be available at seats in both 1st and 2nd class. Also, the multi-purpose areas will include sockets for charging e-bikes.

Separately, Siemens plans to improve passenger information inside the trains. The passenger compartment will be fitted with more and larger screens. At the same time, a light strip above the doors will show the correct exit side.

Roland Busch, CEO of Siemens AG, said:

This contract, worth around 2 billion Swiss francs, underscores SBB’s confidence in Siemens.

Reliability, sustainability and quality of life – that is what people in Switzerland associate with the railways. And we are proud to meet these high standards for the future with our new trains and our leading technology.

The fact that key parts of the project – from project management through testing and approval runs to the start of operations – are taking place in Switzerland also demonstrates our deep ties with the country.

Sustainable train design and Swiss project work

The trains are designed for low energy consumption. Siemens aims to achieve this through efficient traction components. In addition, the design includes an integrated heat pump. It also uses intelligent energy management via the vehicle control system. Each car body will be made using 100% CO2-reduced aluminium.

All new units will be delivered by Siemens Mobility, based in Wallisellen. Separately, manufacturing is planned for Krefeld, Germany. Project management, testing and approval runs will be carried out with local partners in Switzerland. The same applies to commissioning, introduction into operation, and maintenance work during the warranty period.

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