Stadler Signalling AG has entered a new partnership with Sihltal Zürich Uetliberg Bahn (SZU) to modernise the railway’s signalling systems by 2034.
This marks Stadler’s entry into the Swiss signalling market for standard-gauge railways.
Under this agreement, Stadler will modernise SZU’s signalling
© SZU
As part of SZU’s ‘SZU_4.0’ modernisation programme, Stadler will supply the railway with new signal boxes and train control systems to improve punctuality, comfort, and speed for passengers.
The modernisation effort is part of a broader investment by the federal government, totalling approximately 800 million CHF. This funding will go towards upgrading SZU’s infrastructure and introducing new rolling stock.
The signalling agreement, signed on 16 October 2024, includes all aspects of the project, from planning to installation, testing, and commissioning, with a total value of 34 million CHF.
The contract is set to last ten years and aims to increase train frequency, delivering a 7.5-minute service during peak hours on the S4 and S10 lines.
“The contract with SZU is a milestone for Stadler: the fact that we have been chosen to modernise the signalling systems across the network is a breakthrough for Stadler in the Swiss standard-gauge market. We are very pleased to have signed this contract and look forward to working with the SZU project team. Stadler will do everything in its power to exceed expectations.”
In addition to the signalling modernisation, the companies also signed an earlier agreement in mid-September for Stadler to supply 17 FLIRT single-deck S-Bahn trains to SZU.
This 160 million CHF contract represents SZU’s largest vehicle procurement to date, with the new trains expected to enter service by mid-2028.
These trains will replace the ageing double-decker fleet on the Sihltalbahn S4 line. Each unit will have six low-floor entrances, 140 seats, and standing room for 265 passengers.