Stadler and Schweizerische Südostbahn (SOB) transport operator presented the electric low-floor Traverso train at InnoTrans in Berlin. The long-distance trains for the SOB reflect the current development status of the FLIRT vehicle line (Fast Light Intercity- and Regional Train). The completely new motor bogies and other optimised carrying bogies represent the technical highlights of the model. The new fleet of the successful Voralpen-Express will be running along the St. Gallen –
Lucerne line, which is also very popular among international tourists, to coincide with timetable changes in 2019. Later, in 2020, the SOB will enter into a partnership with Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) in the area of long-distance transport. From this date, the new Traverso trains operated by the SOB will set off each hour from Zurich or Basel in turn and cross the Gotthard mountain route to Locarno in Ticino.
The eight-car trains can seat over 359 passengers, including 68 in first class. Passengers can plug their devices into power outlets fitted next to every seat. The long-distance version of the FLIRT has been designed to reach a maximum speed of 200 km/h. The new Traverso has been configured for a maximum operating speed of 160 km/h for the intended route. The new Traverso also has the following characteristics which are typical of all the vehicles in the FLIRT family: stepless entrances, a spacious, clearly laid-out interior, and car bodies with a lightweight aluminium construction.
Technical development work on the FLIRT for the SOB focussed mainly on the introduction of the new motor bogie, optimisation of the carrying bogies, and the successful integration of a latest-generation energy-efficient power converter. Innovative vehicle technology enables low-wear operation on winding sections of the network. In addition, the new, lightweight bogie can be replaced quickly during maintenance work. The Traverso has standardized components on the vehicle roof, where the majority of the drive train including the traction transformer, cooling system, pantograph and main circuit breaker is installed in addition to the HVAC system and equipment for the production and supply of compressed air. The new dry transformer developed jointly by Stadler and ABB has also been installed in the vehicle. This has already achieved energy savings of up to 7.5 percent on the FLIRT trains currently in operation.
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