Regionalverkehr Bern-Solothurn (RBS) has awarded Stadler a contract to deliver 20 new multiple-unit trains for the Solothurn-Bern RegioExpress line (RE5).
The contract, valued at approximately EUR 203 million, was signed in Worblaufen in mid-November. The vehicles will be produced at Stadler's facility in Bussnang, Thurgau, Switzerland.
The new three-car trains will be 60 meters long, similar to the existing RBS fleet, but with the capability to operate in triple formation, extending to 180 meters. This configuration is expected to provide a 50 percent increase in passenger capacity during peak times.
Key features of the new trains include barrier-free entrances with extendable sliding steps and multifunctional spaces for pushchairs, bicycles, luggage, and wheelchairs in every second-class carriage. Seating capacity will comprise 21 seats in first class and 103 seats plus 15 folding seats in second class. Modern amenities such as environmentally friendly air conditioning and power sockets at seats are also part of the design.
Production of the first three vehicles is set to begin in 2026, with entry into service on the RBS network planned between mid-2027 and mid-2028. Following testing and driver training, additional vehicles will be delivered from 2029 onwards. The operation of trains with three carriages is anticipated around 2030/31 to meet the increasing demand on the Solothurn-Bern route.
This procurement is part of RBS's fleet renewal strategy. The "Seconda" S-Bahn trains currently operating on the S8 line between Bätterkinden and Bern are over 30 years old and nearing the end of their service life. Maintenance costs are rising, and obtaining spare parts has become challenging. The introduction of the new trains will allow the current RE "NExT" trains to replace the "Secondas" on the S8 line.
