[locomotive] New Stadler locomotives for RhB, MGBahn and MBC

Some weeks ago, the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn (MGB) announced that it would buy three HGem dual-mode locomotives from Stadler Rail. The contract, solely based on quality, was signed on 20.11.2024, and Stadler Rail was the only bidder. Now, there is more information involving also two other Swiss railway companies:

The Rhaetian Railway (RhB) and Matterhorn Gotthard Railway (MGBahn) have agreed with Stadler to produce and deliver eleven new metre-gauge locomotives.

• 8x multisystem dual-mode locomotive (E+D) for RhB (1,5kV DC + 15kV 16 2/3Hz AC);
• 3x dual mode pin-and-rack locomotive (E+D) for MGBahn (15kV 16 2/3Hz AC).

The new locomotives, produced in Bussnang (CH), will replace ageing units nearing the end of their service life while also expanding and standardizing the fleet. The contract is valued at approximately CHF 100 million.

RhB: Enhancing response and capacity

RhB’s order for eight locomotives will allow the replacement of five older models. The three extra locos will strengthen operational resilience by reducing response times to disruptions. Strategically positioning more locomotives along the network will ensure swift removal of stranded or faulty trains, especially in areas with limited road access. These robust locomotives will also address growing demands for construction and maintenance, which are expected to increase as nighttime work windows shrink.

Tech specs:

• Weight 63 tonnes;
• Max. starting tractive force adhesion 220 kN;
• Power at the wheel (continuous) electric 15kV 16 2/3Hz AC: 1,500 kW;
• Power at the wheel (continuous) electric 1,5kV DC: 1,000 kW;
• Power at the wheel from diesel engine 700 kW;
• Maximum speed 100 km/h;
• Wheel diameter new/old 1,070/1,000 mm;
• Brake Vacuum and compressed air.

Modernization at MGBahn

MGBahn’s three new service locomotives will replace the outdated HGm 4/4 61-62 from the eighties (ex FO). These units will primarily support infrastructure maintenance and improvements and are critical for clearing snow from the Oberalp Pass during winter months.

Tech specs:

• Weight 63 tonnes;
• Max. starting tractive force adhesion 140 kN;
• Max. starting tractive force rack 280 kN;
• Power at the wheel (continuous) electric 15kV 16 2/3Hz AC: 1,300 kW;
• Power at the wheel from diesel engine 700 kW;
• Maximum speed 70 km/h;
• Wheel diameter new/old 796/770 mm;
• Brake Vacuum and compressed air.

MBC is another customer

This order aligns with similar procurements by other RAILplus partners. In October 2024, the Montreux-Berner Oberland-Bahn (MOB) ordered six comparable metre-gauge locomotives. More recently, on 10.12.2024, Transports de la région Morges-Bière-Cossonay (MBC) signed a contract with Stadler for a single locomotive. By working together, the four railways are leveraging synergies to share development costs and streamline the production of this specialized rolling stock.