Rolling stock manufacturer Siemens Mobility Switzerland has revealed that it has been awarded by SBB to deliver 116 six-car Desiro DoSto double-deck trains, to be used on the Zurich S-Bahn network starting in 2031.

The contract, which is worth around two billion Swiss Francs, also includes an option for up to 84 additional trains.

Siemens explains that it designed the Desiro DoSto as a train that can “meet the needs of future metropolitan areas optimally”. The vehicle offers space and comfort, and, says Siemens, sets new standards in sustainability.

Each train has around 540 seats and also includes eight spacious multi-purpose zones to facilitate easy boarding and alighting. This represents around 30% more standing room and 10% more seating than the trains that the Desiro DoSto is replacing, a notable increase in capacity on popular routes.

The Desiro DoSto trains have low-floor entrances at all their doors, which enable passengers to access the vehicle easily.

First class accommodation has adjustable seats, fold-out tables, and a greater seat pitch. Both first and second class carriages have power outlets at the seats. The multi-purpose zones provide power outlets which can be used to charge e-bikes.

Passenger compartments feature customer information systems with more large screens. A light strip above the doors displays which side passengers use to exit at each station. The trains also have extra emergency intercoms, through which passengers can summon help in an urgent situation.

Because of its efficient traction components, integrated heat pumps and intelligent energy management via the vehicle control system, the train consumes a low level of energy. The bodies of the carriages are built using 100% CO2-reduced aluminium.

Siemens Mobility is based in Wallisellen, and has been active in Switzerland for over a century, including decades of work with SBB. The company runs several development departments and production facilities, and plans to manufacture the trains’ car bodies in Krefeld. Project management, testing, approval runs, commissioning and operational introduction will also be carried out in Switzerland, in conjunction with local partners. Siemens will also provide maintenance work during the warranty period.

For the last decade, more than 180 Vectron locomotives supplied by Siemens Mobility have made a major contribution to freight transport in Switzerland and internationally. The company recently signed a framework agreement with train leasing and maintenance company Akiem to supply 80 Vectron locomotives.

“The Desiro double-decker is based on our tried-and-tested Desiro HC platform, which has proven to be highly reliable in daily passenger service across numerous countries. Building on this proven foundation, we are providing SBB with an advanced solution that combines high capacity, comfort and sustainability, and is optimally designed to meet the requirements of modern commuter rail networks.

“With more than 440 trains from the Desiro HC family sold and over 200 million kilometers travelled, this platform stands for the highest levels of reliability, availability and cost-effectiveness.”

Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility