The Berner Oberland-Bahnen (BOB) has placed a further order with Stadler for five additional multiple-unit trains, continuing its fleet renewal and expansion strategy to meet growing passenger demand and encourage a shift from road to rail in the Bernese Oberland.
This latest order, announced in early July, follows previous procurements made in 2022 and 2024. With this third batch, BOB will expand its fleet of modern metre-gauge trains to 15 by mid-2028. The new vehicles, valued at around CHF 50 million, will be manufactured at Stadler’s facility in Bussnang, Thurgau.
According to BOB, the additional trains are part of a long-term plan to improve the capacity and reliability of services, particularly during peak periods. The railway operator is responding to increasing passenger volumes in a region that attracts significant leisure traffic throughout the year.
Modern design for greater passenger comfort
The three-car multiple units feature a modern open-plan layout with barrier-free access and spacious boarding areas to facilitate fast and efficient passenger flow. Inside, each train is equipped with multifunctional zones designed to accommodate luggage, skis, prams, and bicycles, catering to both commuters and tourists.
The vehicles have been tailored to suit the unique requirements of travel in the Jungfrau region, where tourism plays a key role in transport demand. Their introduction is expected to support BOB’s efforts to provide more frequent and attractive services, especially for visitors exploring the popular Alpine destinations.
Commitment to sustainable mobility
BOB has positioned this investment as a step towards more sustainable regional mobility. By offering improved rail services, the operator aims to reduce reliance on private car travel and support Switzerland’s broader environmental objectives.
The new fleet will help facilitate a planned increase in timetable frequency, contributing to smoother connections and a more efficient transport network across the Bernese Oberland.
Christian König, Deputy Head of Sales at Stadler, welcomed the continued collaboration: “With our customised metre-gauge multiple units, we are contributing to the further expansion of sustainable mobility in the breathtaking Jungfrau region. We are proud of this. We are very pleased about the continued cooperation with the Berner Oberland-Bahnen and the trust they have placed in us.”
The newly ordered trains are scheduled to enter service from the end of 2027.
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