Ukrzaliznytsia Expands International Rail Network with New Direct Routes to EU Capitals

The Swiss national railway operator SBB has awarded Siemens Mobility a landmark contract worth roughly USD 2.5 billion to deliver 116 new commuter trainsets, marking one of the largest rolling stock investments in Switzerland in recent years. This ambitious procurement is part of a broader national strategy to modernize suburban and regional rail services across the country, addressing growing passenger demand and preparing for future urban mobility needs. Switzerland, known for its dense rail network and high rail usage, has long prioritized efficiency, punctuality, and comfort in public transport. By investing in new trainsets, SBB aims to increase capacity on heavily trafficked commuter lines, reduce crowding during peak hours, and enhance overall service reliability, particularly on routes serving Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and other major metropolitan areas. The contract is also a reflection of Switzerland’s commitment to sustainability, with rail travel positioned as a central pillar of the country’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encourage modal shift away from cars.

The Siemens trainsets, designed with cutting-edge technology and energy-efficient systems, are tailored to meet Switzerland’s specific operational requirements, including compatibility with existing infrastructure and the demanding performance standards of mountainous terrain. These trains will feature modern passenger amenities, including spacious seating, real-time travel information systems, accessibility solutions for passengers with reduced mobility, and climate-controlled interiors. Furthermore, advanced safety systems, regenerative braking technology, and energy-efficient propulsion units will contribute to reducing operational costs and minimizing environmental impact. The delivery of the 116 trainsets will occur over several years, with rigorous testing and commissioning phases to ensure they meet SBB’s high standards for punctuality, reliability, and passenger comfort. The new trains are expected to significantly improve the daily commuting experience, reduce congestion, and enable SBB to run more frequent services across Switzerland’s busiest commuter corridors, which have seen consistent growth in passenger numbers over the last decade.

Beyond operational improvements, the procurement has substantial economic and strategic implications for Switzerland and the European rail industry. The contract represents a significant boost to Siemens’ manufacturing and engineering workforce, supporting high-skill jobs in train design, production, and maintenance. Additionally, it reinforces Switzerland’s role as a leader in advanced, sustainable public transport solutions, showcasing how investments in modern rail infrastructure can deliver economic, environmental, and social benefits simultaneously. From a broader perspective, the project aligns with European goals to expand the share of rail in public transport and freight, emphasizing efficiency, sustainability, and integration with wider European transport networks. By providing state-of-the-art commuter trains, SBB is ensuring that its rail services remain competitive with private vehicles, fostering a modal shift toward greener transportation options, and contributing to national and continental climate goals. In essence, the Siemens-SBB collaboration exemplifies how strategic investments in rail infrastructure can deliver transformative impacts, ensuring high-quality, reliable, and sustainable mobility for millions of passengers across Switzerland well into the coming decades.