SBB Expands High-Speed Rail Fleet: 7 New Giruno Trains

This article delves into the recent expansion of the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) high-speed rail fleet with the acquisition of seven additional Giruno trains from Stadler Rail. The purchase, valued at $251 million (CHF 250 million), represents a significant investment in SBB’s modernization strategy and its ambitions for enhanced cross-border high-speed services to Germany starting in 2026. The decision to procure more Giruno units highlights the limitations of SBB’s existing fleet—the Astoro (ETR610) and Eurocity trains—in meeting the speed and capacity requirements for efficient, high-speed operations on the Deutsche Bahn (DB) network. This strategic move underscores the importance of modern, high-performance rolling stock in facilitating international rail travel and fostering economic connectivity between Switzerland and its neighboring countries. The article will examine the technical specifications of the Giruno train, explore the rationale behind SBB’s decision, and analyze the broader implications for the future of high-speed rail in Switzerland and beyond.

The Giruno: A Technological Advancement in High-Speed Rail

The Stadler Giruno (SBB’s designation for the trains) is a high-speed multiple unit (EMU) capable of reaching speeds up to 250 km/h (155 mph). This speed capability is crucial for efficient operation on the German high-speed network, a key factor in SBB’s decision. The train’s design incorporates several passenger-centric features, including LED lighting, power outlets at every seat, spacious luggage racks, and gender-separated restrooms. Significantly, the Giruno boasts double the legally mandated number of wheelchair-accessible spaces and toilets, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. The double-traction configuration provides a seating capacity of 810 passengers. These features contribute to a significantly improved passenger experience compared to older rolling stock.

SBB’s Strategic Rationale: Expanding International Connectivity

SBB’s purchase of seven additional Giruno trains is driven by its strategic goal to expand its high-speed rail services to Germany beginning in 2026. The existing fleet, comprising Astoro (ETR610) and Eurocity trains, is inadequate for this purpose. The Astoro units are already committed to other high-speed lines, while the Eurocity trains lack the necessary speed capabilities for seamless integration with the DB high-speed network. The Giruno, with its proven performance and high-speed capabilities, directly addresses this operational gap, enabling SBB to offer competitive and efficient cross-border services. This expansion reflects SBB’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and enhancing its international connectivity, crucial for economic growth and passenger convenience.

Stadler Rail: A Key Partner in SBB’s Modernization

The order for seven additional Giruno trains underscores the strong and enduring partnership between SBB and Stadler Rail. This is not a new collaboration; SBB initially ordered 29 Giruno trains in 2014, with the last unit delivered in 2021. The success of these initial deliveries, coupled with the Giruno’s proven reliability and technological superiority, clearly influenced SBB’s decision to expand its fleet. The rapid development and deployment of the Giruno – presented to the public at InnoTrans in 2016, less than two years after contract signing, and in operation since 2019 – showcase Stadler’s efficient design, manufacturing, and project management capabilities. This ongoing collaboration highlights the importance of strong public-private partnerships in driving innovation and modernization within the rail industry.

Implications for the Future of High-Speed Rail

The procurement of additional Giruno trains signifies a significant step forward for high-speed rail in Switzerland. It not only enhances SBB’s capacity to provide high-speed services to Germany, but also underscores a broader trend towards greater cross-border collaboration and integration within Europe’s high-speed rail network. The investment in modern, passenger-friendly rolling stock, like the Giruno, showcases a commitment to improving the overall passenger experience and enhancing the competitiveness of rail travel against other modes of transportation. The success of this expansion could serve as a model for other railway operators seeking to modernize their fleets and expand their international reach. The continuous innovation in train technology, such as that demonstrated by Stadler’s Giruno, promises even greater improvements in speed, efficiency, passenger comfort, and sustainability in the years to come.

In conclusion, SBB’s investment of $251 million in seven additional Giruno high-speed trains represents a strategic decision with significant implications for the future of high-speed rail in Switzerland and beyond. The choice of Stadler’s Giruno highlights the importance of modern, high-performance rolling stock in supporting expansion of international services, specifically to the German high-speed rail network. The decision is underpinned by the limitations of SBB’s existing fleet and the need to meet the growing demand for efficient, high-speed cross-border travel. The partnership between SBB and Stadler showcases a successful collaboration between a national railway operator and a leading rolling stock manufacturer, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships in driving innovation and modernization within the rail industry. The focus on passenger comfort, accessibility, and technological advancements in the Giruno sets a precedent for future developments in high-speed rail, indicating a broader trend towards enhanced passenger experience and increased international connectivity through advanced rail technologies. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other railway operators seeking to improve their fleets and services, ultimately leading to a more efficient, sustainable, and passenger-centric future for high-speed rail across Europe and globally.