On 16 October 2024, Stadler Signalling AG and Sihltal Zürich Uetliberg Bahn (SZU) signed a partnership agreement to modernise SZU’s signalling systems, demonstrating Stadler’s entry into the Swiss signalling market for standard-gauge railways. This is a core element of SZU’s overall modernisation programme, known as ‘SZU_4.0’. Stadler will provide new signal boxes and train control systems, which will enable passengers to reach their destinations more punctually, more comfortably and more quickly.
To accommodate the growing number of passengers and improve the quality of rail services, the federal government, the canton of Zurich and SZU have pledged to invest around 800 million francs in SZU infrastructure and new rolling stock over the next few years. A core element of this modernisation programme, known as ‘SZU_4.0’, is the network-wide modernisation of the signalling systems. It involves new signal boxes and train control systems, ensuring safe rail operations at all times. Stadler Signalling AG will be developing and supplying these. The overall investment is an essential component of SZU’s future service and operational concept.
SZU and Stadler Signalling AG signed a partnership and long-term implementation contract. The order includes all project work, from planning and installation to testing and commissioning of the safety systems. The contract will run for around ten years and includes services worth around 34 million francs.
The upgraded systems will enable more trains to run, with a 7.5-minute service set to be introduced during peak hours for sections of the S4 and S10 railway lines. “The partnership with Stadler Signalling marks an important milestone for SZU and is crucial for the implementation of ‘SZU_4.0’. The modernised signalling systems are essential to successfully implement the planned expansion of services,” says Andrea Felix, Chairwoman of the SZU Board of Directors.
Significant order for Stadler
Securing the SZU order is highly significant for Stadler, representing its entry in the Swiss signalling market for standard-gauge railways. The ‘Eurolocking’ signal box solution has a SIL4 safety certification and is already being used successfully by various railway operators.
Peter Spuhler, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Stadler, emphasised the strategic importance of the contract signing. “The contract with SZU is a milestone for Stadler: the fact that we have been chosen to modernise the signalling systems across the network is a breakthrough for Stadler in the Swiss standard-gauge market. We are very pleased to have signed this contract and look forward to working with the SZU project team. Stadler will do everything in its power to exceed expectations,” said Peter Spuhler.
Largest SZU procurement of all time – Stadler delivers 17 S-Bahn multiple-unit trains
In mid-September, Stadler and the SZU signed the contract for the delivery of 17 single-deck S-Bahn multiple-unit trains of the FLIRT type. This is the largest vehicle procurement in the history of the SZU. The contract volume amounts to around 160 million francs and includes options for ordering up to ten additional vehicles.
The FLIRTs will replace the eight primarily double-decker trains of the Sihltalbahn S4, which have come to the end of their useful life after more than 30 years in operation. The new vehicles are expected to be in service from early summer 2028 and will each have six low-floor entrances, 140 seats and standing room for 265 passengers.
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