Siemens, SBB Digital Interlockings: Swiss Rail Modernization

Introduction

Siemens Mobility and Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) have finalized a framework agreement to implement digital interlockings across the Swiss rail network. This agreement, encompassing construction, delivery, and services, has an initial term of ten years, with the possibility of three five-year extensions and a 25-year maintenance and support commitment. The program aims to modernize about 500 interlockings over the next 20 years, with the first systems scheduled for commissioning in 2029.

Contractual Details

The framework agreement between Siemens Mobility and Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) outlines the contractual conditions for construction, delivery, and associated services. The initial term of the agreement is ten years. It also includes provisions for three extensions, each lasting five years, and a 25-year commitment for maintenance and support. Orders for individual interlockings will be awarded on an ongoing basis.

Scope of the Project

The contract encompasses the Signaling X solution, including hardware, software, and services. The project’s goal is to modernize approximately 500 interlockings, replacing roughly 80% of existing systems within the next 20 years. The first systems are slated for commissioning in 2029.

Network and Infrastructure

The SBB network, a standard-gauge network, spans 3,266km of track. It is utilized for both passenger and freight transport across Switzerland.

Siemens Mobility Facility

In September, Siemens Mobility began constructing a new facility in Luhe-Wildenau, Bavaria, Germany. This facility is dedicated to the manufacturing of battery systems for rail vehicles. The total investment for this project is approximately €35m ($41m), with Siemens Mobility contributing around €22m.

Conclusion

Siemens Mobility and Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) have established a framework agreement for the deployment of digital interlockings, aiming to modernize the Swiss rail network. The agreement includes provisions for construction, delivery, services, maintenance, and support over a 20-year period. In addition, Siemens Mobility is constructing a new facility in Germany for manufacturing battery systems for rail vehicles.

Company Summary

Siemens Mobility: A company involved in the deployment of digital interlockings and the manufacturing of battery systems for rail vehicles.

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB): The largest standard-gauge network in Switzerland, used for passenger and freight transport.

Technology

Signaling X: A solution that moves interlocking logic to central data centers.