BLS makes largest rolling stock order in its history

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Credit: BLS.
Credit: BLS.
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Swiss railway firm BLS AG has ordered 58 new trains from Stadler Rail – the largest order in the company’s history.

The trains will gradually enter service between 2021 and 2016 – 30 for the regional train service RegioExpress and 28 for the commuter rail network Bern S-Bahn – to replace 43 EW III, RBDe 565 and RBDe 566 II.

BLS considered another offer from Bombardier for the 650 million Swiss francs (€600 million) contract but chose Stadler after a “complex evaluation.”

BLS CEO Bernard Guillelmon said (translated from German): “After a thorough examination of all criteria, Stadler Rail’s offer was convincing.

“It fulfils the criteria best in terms of price, quality, comfort for our passengers and efficient operation.”

The announcement was made online on May 2 and is subject to a 20 day appeal period. If the plans proceed, further details are expected in the autumn of 2017.

 

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