RhB signed a SFr 285m ($US 285m) contract with Stadler in June 2016 for 27 new Flügel EMUs with an option for up to 20 additional trains, which it partially exercised in November 2016 by ordering an additional nine trains at a cost of SFr 67.9m.
RhB director, Dr Renato Fasciati, and Stadler CEO, Dr Thomas Ahlburg, presented the train before ceremonially cutting a red ribbon.
The first new trains will be introduced on the Landquart - Davos - Filisur route from late autumn, and on the Landquart - Klosters - Davos/St Moritz route in 2021.
Fasciati says the purchase of the trains, RhB’s biggest ever procurement, will provide more comfortable trains with easier access for passengers with reduced mobility.
The trains are equipped with automatic couplings which will allow them to run in multiple along a single-track section before splitting and running to different destinations. RhB says this will allow half-hourly operation on the single-track line between Landquart and Klosters without major infrastructure upgrades.
The 120km/h EMUs have 164 seats, including 35 in first class. The trains are equipped with power outlets and a passenger information system which also shows a view from the driver’s cab, as well as large multifunctional compartments for bicycles, skis and other sports equipment, strollers and luggage.
Three of the four cars have low-floor access, as well as a toilet for passengers with reduced mobility, wheelchair spaces and tactile labels for the visually impaired.
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