BLS AG selected Stadler Rail to supply 58 single-deck Flirt EMUs that will be deployed on regional network until 2026. The value of the contract is CHF 650 million (alsmot EUR 600 million) and is the largest rolling stock order in BLS history.
30 Flirt EMUs will be put into service on BLS RegioExpress network and 28 EMUs on S-Bahn Bern commuter network.
Within the tender process, Stadler Rail and Bombardier were the two companies that have submitted concrete offers. “After a thorough examination of all criteria, Stadler Rail’s offer was convincing. The best way to meet these criteria is price, quality, and comfort for our passengers, as well as efficient operation. The procurement value of CHF 650 million is significantly lower than the estimated value at the start of the procedure,” Bernard Guillelmon, BLS Chairman of the Board said.
The vehicles will be tested between 2021 and 2026 and will be gradually put into operation on the two networks. They will replace 43 older trains of EW III, RBDe565 and RBDe 566II types. They will operate the La Chaux-de-Fonds–Bern–Spiez–Domodossola/Zweisimmen on RE Line and on various S-Bahn Bern lines. For the S-Bahn Bern, BLS will need additional new trains under a second rolling stock replacement programme.
Share on:
