The Montreux–Vevey–Riviera operator MVR has awarded Stadler the contract to equip the Montreux–Rochers-de-Naye line with the NOVA Pro CBTC system, further advancing the route’s modernisation programme. The project complements the recent procurement of new rolling stock and aims to support a safer, more efficient and progressively automated mountain railway.
The contract covers signalling renewal along the 11-kilometre single-track route, including eight stations and the line’s future depot. NOVA Pro will be installed in both the new panoramic trains and service locomotives, enabling unified control across the infrastructure and rolling stock.
The CBTC solution combines Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Supervision (ATS) and Automatic Train Operation (ATO). This allows real-time speed monitoring with emergency intervention, centralised traffic management for denser timetables, and partially automated train movements for smoother and more energy-efficient operation.
According to MVR, the project represents a decisive step in preparing the mountain line for future mobility needs. Stadler notes that this is its second NOVA Pro deployment on a Swiss rack railway, following a pioneer installation for Appenzeller Bahnen.
The solution builds on technologies already in use at other Swiss operators, including the Montreux Oberland Bernois (MOB). As announced in 2025, Stadler will also supply eight new rack trains from 2029, with the signalling and vehicle deliveries designed to create commissioning synergies for the line.
FACT BOX — NOVA PRO CBTC
- Line length: 11 km single track
- Scope: 8 stations + new depot
- Functions: ATP, ATS, ATO in one system
- Automation-ready (GoA scalable)
- Wireless communication incl. 5G / WLAN
- Second CBTC project for Swiss rack railway
