Wedoany.com Report-Dec 16, This order, valued at EUR 106 million, aims to replace older vehicles and adjust fleet capabilities for current operational needs.

The Rhaetian Railway (RhB) and the Matterhorn Gotthard Railway (MGBahn) have finalized a contract with Stadler for the delivery of eleven new hybrid meter-gauge locomotives. The agreement includes eight locomotives for RhB and three for MGBahn, with production taking place at Stadler's Bussnang facility in Switzerland.

Dual-power locomotives for diverse operational conditions

The hybrid design allows the locomotives to operate using either overhead electrification or diesel engines, providing flexibility for maintenance and construction tasks under varied conditions. This capability proves useful in areas without overhead lines or during power outages. The locomotives are built with a four-axle configuration, individual axle drives, and a maximum speed of 100 km/h (70 km/h in case of MGBahn).

Expanded fleet for RhB

RhB’s order includes eight locomotives, five of which will replace older service vehicles. The remaining three will expand the fleet, positioning more locomotives along the network to reduce response times in case of disruptions. Quick access to incidents is essential on RhB’s routes, many of which are not accessible by road. These new locomotives are tailored to meet the operational requirements posed by increased maintenance activities and shorter operational windows.

Fleet renewal for MGBahn

MGBahn will integrate three new hybrid locomotives into its operations, replacing the aging HGm 4/4 series. The new vehicles will be employed for infrastructure maintenance and intervention tasks. They will also play a role in winter operations, particularly for snow clearance on the Oberalp Pass. Their year-round use includes transport tasks for reconstruction and renewal projects.

Collaboration among meter-gauge operators

This procurement aligns with orders by other RAILplus partner operators. The Montreux-Berner Oberland-Bahn (MOB) has ordered six locomotives, while Transports de la région Morges–Bière–Cossonay (MBC) has acquired one similar unit. This coordinated approach allows for shared development costs across multiple railway operators.