Stadler has secured a contract to supply four additional cogwheel trains for the Gornergrat Railway (GGB), continuing a long-term partnership on one of Europe’s best-known mountain railways.
The new POLARIS multiple units will operate on the route between Zermatt and the Gornergrat, replacing older vehicles as part of an ongoing fleet modernisation programme. Delivery is scheduled for 2028, with the contract valued at around CHF 30 million.
From a rail perspective, the order reflects the continued demand for specialised rolling stock tailored to challenging operating environments. The Gornergrat line features gradients of up to 200‰, requiring rack-and-pinion technology and high-performance traction systems.
The trains are designed specifically for high-alpine conditions, combining operational reliability with passenger-focused features such as panoramic windows, step-free access and modern interiors.
While primarily a tourist route, the investment underlines a broader trend in the rail sector: even niche and regional lines are focusing on fleet renewal, accessibility and service quality as part of long-term infrastructure strategies.
The Gornergrat Railway has been gradually expanding its POLARIS fleet in recent years, with earlier units already in operation. The latest order confirms Stadler’s position in the rack railway segment, where tailored solutions remain essential for specific network requirements.
