Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has released technical details of the 116 double-deck EMUs ordered from Siemens Mobility under the EUR 2.1bn framework agreement.
The contract covers 116 multiple units with an option for 84 more. SBB has now confirmed that the fleet will be delivered as Desiro DoSto sets configured for high-capacity regional and S-Bahn services, including the Zurich S-Bahn and services in western Switzerland.
Each train will offer around 540 seats, with SBB stating that the new units provide approximately 10% more seating and around 30% more standing capacity compared with the vehicles they are intended to replace. The trains will feature low-floor entrances, multi-purpose areas for bicycles and pushchairs, power outlets at all seats, and upgraded passenger information systems.
From a technical perspective, the Desiro DoSto units will incorporate energy management systems and heat pump technology. Siemens states that the aluminium car bodies will be produced using CO₂-reduced material. Final assembly of car bodies will take place in Krefeld, Germany, with project management, testing and commissioning activities carried out in Switzerland.
The framework agreement and the procurement background, including the public debate following the award decision, were covered in Railmarket’s earlier report.
