Alstom to maintain SBB’s digital train control system in Switzerland

18 November 2019 – Alstom has signed a second ten-year maintenance contract for ETCS[1] equipment belonging to SBB, the Swiss national railway company. In the years 2003-2008, Alstom installed ETCS onboard equipment on around 500 vehicle types as part of the first wave of a Swiss federal programme to comply with ETCS. The support contract concluded at the time is now being extended for a further ten years, including a five-year option. The value of the contract comes to over €25 million.

“We are very pleased with the confidence that SBB has placed in us with this contract extension. Our aim is to ensure the availability of spare parts and of the large SBB fleet, thus making an important contribution to the smooth operation of rail traffic in Switzerland,” said Cora Hentrich-Henne, Managing Director of Alstom in Switzerland.

The contract includes the logistics management for repair and calibration, as well as overhaul of on-board ETCS components, measurement equipment, obsolescence management, technical support, training and on-site assistance.

ETCS (European Train Control System) is the signalling and control component of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS), ensuring that trains comply with speed limits and signal status. ETCS Level 2 increases line capacity with high safety by determining and adjusting train speed through continuous train control and monitoring via radio communication. Alstom’s Atlas range offers a proven package with 100% interoperable equipment. With projects in 29 countries, the company is a world leader in ETCS vehicle systems.

Alstom's Neuhausen site in Switzerland is the direct point of contact for local customers. Alstom's worldwide centre-of-excellence for signalling technology in Charleroi, Belgium, acts as the hub for testing, service and maintenance.

[1] European Train Control System (ETCS) is the signalling and control component of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS)