The five newly ordered multiple unit trains will replace five existing low-floor articulated control cars built in 2004. The new multiple unit trains are of the ABeh 4/8 type, meaning they are largely identical in construction to the ten vehicles currently being delivered and undergoing type testing. The multiple unit trains are being supplied by Stadler Rail Schweiz Ltd. They will provide 140 seats and are equipped with large, multifunctional compartments on both sides of the entrances for skis, snowboards, pushchairs and luggage. They will feature wide low-floor entrances, which together with the spacious entrance area will enable passengers to board and disembark quickly. The total cost for the procurement of the five additional ABeh 4/8 multiple unit trains is approximately 50 million Swiss francs.
With the procurement of the five multiple unit trains, Bernese Oberland Railway (BOB) is continuing its strategy of renewing and modernising its rolling stock. BOB has already ordered ten new multiple unit trains for this purpose. The first six of these will go into service for the 2025/26 winter season to reinforce additional trains, with the remaining four multiple unit trains following by spring 2026. The trains now ordered are scheduled to enter service in 2027/28. In future, BOB will exclusively operate modern rolling stock featuring low-floor entrances; all high-floor rolling stock will be sold off or scrapped.
The modernisation and expansion of the rolling stock fleet is an important element in the implementation of BOB’s vision of becoming the first suburban railway in the Swiss Alps with trains running at continuous 15-minute intervals. In addition to increased capacity, BOB passengers will also benefit from a higher quality of service.
Implementation of the 15-minute interval
For the 15-minute interval to become a reality from 2028 onwards, the following construction work on the line is also planned: The Schwendi station double track will be expanded in 2026/27. In 2027/28, Burglauenen station will be built with double tracks and an underpass beneath the Burglauen cantonal road. At the same time, an additional train shed is being built in Zweilütschinen for the new multiple unit trains. From 2029/30 onwards, the Lütschental double track will be expanded and the station will be upgraded.
