Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and Siemens Mobility have signed a framework agreement for more than 200 six-car Desiro DoSto double-deck trains. The firm order includes 116 trainsets, with an option for up to 84 additional units. The contract is valued at approximately EUR 2.2 billion (CHF 2 billion).
From 2031, 21 Desiro DoSto trains will operate in Switzerland and 95 will run on the Zurich S-Bahn network. A further 84 units are included as an option.
“The double-deck Desiro is based on our proven Desiro HC platform, which has demonstrated high reliability in daily passenger service across numerous countries. Building on this solid foundation, we are providing SBB with an advanced solution that combines high capacity, comfort and sustainability, and is ideally suited to modern suburban rail networks,” said Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility.
The Desiro DoSto model is designed to meet the needs of future metropolitan areas, offering generous space, enhanced comfort and new sustainability standards. With around 540 seats and eight spacious multi-purpose areas for fast boarding and alighting, the train provides significantly increased capacity for busy lines. Compared with the previous generation, which it will replace, the new model offers around 30% more standing space and 10% more seating.
The Desiro DoSto double-deck trains also set new standards in comfort and safety, featuring level boarding at all doors, making access easier for all passengers.
In first class, adjustable seating, fold-out tables and increased seat pitch provide additional comfort. Power sockets for charging mobile devices are available in both first and second class, while the multi-purpose areas also allow charging of e-bikes. Improved passenger information systems with larger and more numerous screens enhance orientation, complemented by a light strip above the doors indicating the correct exit side. Emergency intercoms are also installed to allow passengers to quickly request assistance.
“Reliability, sustainability and quality of life are the values people in Switzerland associate with rail transport. We are proud to meet these high standards with our new trains and advanced technology. The fact that key stages of the project – from management and testing to approval and entry into service – are taking place in Switzerland demonstrates our close ties with the country,” said Roland Busch, CEO of Siemens AG.
Stadler withdraws from the competition
The contract was finalised following the withdrawal of the legal challenge filed by Stadler Rail, bringing to a close the legal clarification of SBB’s award decision in favour of Siemens.
On 7 November 2025, SBB awarded Siemens Mobility Switzerland the contract for 116 new double-deck trainsets. In the public tender, Siemens’ offer was assessed as the most economically and qualitatively advantageous, with SBB stating that “Siemens clearly won the procurement process.”
The trains stood out for both investment and operating costs, as well as energy consumption, infrastructure usage charges and maintenance requirements. Over a 25-year operating life, savings are expected to amount to hundreds of millions of Swiss francs. Both passengers and public authorities will benefit from the new rolling stock.
Share on: 
