Siemens Mobility has entered into a framework agreement with Swiss BLS Netz AG, valued at €110 million, to upgrade existing control and safety technology to the European Train Control System standard (ETCS Level 2). The contract involves the supply of advanced safety systems for cab signaling and train control technology. Initially, the railway line between Bern and Schwarzenburg in Switzerland will receive this technology. The agreement includes options for additional projects aligned with BLS's ERTMS implementation plan for cab signaling over the next decade.
Daniel Pixley, Head of Automation at BLS Netz AG, stated, "Siemens Mobility is the optimal supplier for us, with a convincing complete solution to set the standard in Switzerland for high-performance regional lines based on ETCS Level 2. The joint project is the foundation for further initiatives by BLS and the industry in Switzerland, following the ERTMS implementation concepts."
Marc Ludwig, CEO of Siemens Mobility Rail Infrastructure, added, "BLS Netz AG trusts in our expertise to equip its Bern-Schwarzenburg regional line with state-of-the-art ETCS Level 2 technology. We will be integrating and meeting the specific requirements of a line that runs through both urban and rural areas – from optimized closing times of level crossings to efficient traffic control. The long-term framework agreement also ensures planning security and enables the efficient implementation of future modernizations."
The modernization project involves upgrading BLS AG's 17-kilometer line between Bern Fischermätteli and Schwarzenburg from ETCS Level 1 to signal-less ETCS Level 2. This upgrade allows direct transmission of track information to a display in the driver's cab. The project aims to increase capacity significantly for regional rail operations while addressing challenges like mixed urban-rural routing and numerous level crossings. To minimize road traffic disruption, Siemens Mobility is implementing an intelligent level crossing management system. Benefits include reduced interlocking systems required, simplified maintenance, and groundwork for future expansions. Commissioning of the new system is scheduled for 2029.
BLS Netz AG operates a railway network covering 424 kilometers, making it Switzerland's second-largest standard-gauge network after SBB's network. It provides passenger and freight services and was founded in 1906 as 'Bern-Lötschberg-Simplon Railway'. Notably, it opened the Lötschberg Base Tunnel in 2007, one of the longest railway tunnels globally at 34.6 kilometers. As Switzerland's second-largest railway company, BLS transports over 67 million passengers annually and plays a central role in public transport within the Bern region as well as on freight corridors between the North Sea and Mediterranean Sea.