Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has placed an order with Siemens Transportation Systems for 25 double-deck multiple units for Zurich’s commuter rail system. SBB has decided to exercise its option under the terms of the contract and add these 25 units to the first series of 35 trains ordered. The order volume of this option amounts to more than 220 million euros. "With this order, SBB is confirming its trust in Siemens as a supplier of modern and reliable rolling stock", emphasizes Hans M. Schabert, group president of TS.

The trains now ordered by SBB are identical in design to the 35 double-deck multiple units already ordered in 2003, the first units of which are undergoing an intensive test program in Zurich’s commuter rail network. The four-car trains measuring 100 meters in length and 2.78 meters in width can be walked through from end to end. Featuring 378 seats (1st class: 74 seats; 2nd class: 304 seats) and additional standing space for around 600 passengers, they offer space for almost 1,000 passengers. A characteristic feature of the 140 km/h trains is their high acceleration capacity for sophisticated use as rapid suburban trains on lines with relatively short distances between stops. The fact that they cater particularly to the needs of handicapped passengers is also worth emphasis. For example, their wide doors and a special-purpose sliding step allow even passengers with impaired mobility to get on and off with ease.
The trains belonging to the second series are to be delivered in 2008 and 2009.