Project Profile: Rhaetian Railway’s Capricorn EMU Fleet

The Rhaetian Railway (RhB) Capricorn project represents a strategic modernization of its narrow-gauge rolling stock in Graubünden, Switzerland. Centered on the procurement of 56 separable Electric Multiple-Units (EMUs) from Stadler Rail, the project enhances operational flexibility and increases service frequency on key routes without requiring extensive infrastructure expansion. This profile details the technical specifications and strategic impact of this landmark fleet.

Technical Specifications

The Capricorn fleet consists of four-car Electric Multiple-Units (EMU), designated Class ABe 4/16, manufactured by Stadler Rail. Each unit provides a seating capacity of 164 passengers (35 first class, 129 second class) and is fully compliant with Swiss disability equality legislation, featuring low-floor entrances in three of the four cars for barrier-free access. The core technological innovation is the train’s ability to operate as a separable multiple-unit. Utilizing automatic coupling technology, a combined eight-car train can divide at key network junctions, such as Klosters Platz, into two independent four-car units to serve different destinations (e.g., Davos and St. Moritz). This capability enables a high-frequency, half-hourly service loop between Landquart, Klosters, Davos, and St. Moritz, maximizing track capacity on single-line sections.

Passenger amenities are designed for modern commuter and tourist expectations, including power sockets at all seats, advanced digital passenger information systems, and multi-functional compartments for bicycles, skis, and luggage. The trains are engineered for the demanding alpine environment of the RhB’s meter-gauge network, balancing high performance with passenger comfort and accessibility.

Key Takeaways

• Operational Flexibility: The separable EMU design allows RhB to dynamically adjust service patterns, effectively doubling destination options from a single train consist without needing passengers to change trains.
• Cost-Effective Capacity Increase: The Capricorn strategy increases service frequency and network capacity without the immense capital expenditure typically associated with doubling single-track railway infrastructure.
• Fleet Modernization: This project represents the largest single rolling stock procurement in RhB history, significantly upgrading fleet-wide standards for accessibility, passenger comfort, and operational efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the Capricorn trains enter service?

The Capricorn trains are fully operational on the Rhaetian Railway network. Their phased introduction began following the initial procurement order placed in 2016, with the fleet now forming the backbone of services on key routes in Graubünden.

Who built the Capricorn trains?

The Capricorn trains were designed and manufactured by the Swiss rolling stock company Stadler Rail. They were custom-built to meet the specific operational requirements and challenging topography of the Rhaetian Railway’s meter-gauge network.