The train left Stadler’s facility in Bussnang early on Friday morning, and was moved by rail on a transporter wagon to AVA’s railhead in Suhr where it was unloaded via a ramp onto the metre-gauge line and driven by an AVA driver to Schöftland.
The 750V dc train, which has a maximum operating speed of 80km/h, will now undergo a testing programme to gain authorisation from the Federal Office of Transport (FOT), before entering passenger service in May. Driver training will take place simultaneously.
“I am very pleased that we can offer our passengers on the Wynental & Suhrentalbahn (WSB) modern and comfortable vehicles,” says AVA CEO, Dr Severin Rangosch. “This procurement of rolling stock is also an important contribution to coping with the future increases in traffic.”
Stadler was awarded the contract after a call for tender was issued in December 2015.
The EMUs have capacity for 409 passengers, including 18 seated in first class and 99 in second class, and are equipped with HVAC, an electronic passenger information system and modern safety systems.
The low-floor design will allow for easy entry and exit, while the large multi-functional area in the intermediate car will offer space for strollers, wheelchairs, luggage and bicycles.
The official public inauguration ceremony and presentation will take place on May 18 in Schöftland. The delivery of the remaining four EMUs will be staggered, with all five trains due to be in service from December 2019.
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