SBB High-Speed Train Lease: 40 Trainsets for Italy, France, UK

Introduction

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has shortlisted AlphaTrains, Beacon Rail, Rock Rail, and Willow Group for the next phase of its high-speed train leasing tender. The selected firms will submit bids for a 15-year operating lease covering up to 40 high-speed trainsets, with deployment planned for the 2030s.

Shortlisted Companies

SBB has chosen AlphaTrains, Beacon Rail, Rock Rail, and Willow Group to advance to the next stage of its high-speed train leasing tender. These companies will be invited to submit formal bids.

Leasing Contract Details

The tender involves a 15-year operating lease for up to 40 high-speed trainsets. The value of the contract has not been disclosed, but SBB estimates that a 15-year lease for this number of trainsets could amount to several hundred million Swiss francs.

Operational Plans

SBB plans to introduce the new trains during the 2030s to replace parts of its international fleet, including the first-generation Astoro (ETR 610) units. The multi-system high-speed trains are intended for cross-border services to Italy and France, with potential expansion to Spain and the UK.

Tender Process and Timeline

SBB held market consultations with industry stakeholders in April and May this year. The leasing process began in August, with a prequalification call published on Switzerland’s official procurement platform, Simap. The second phase of the tender, which requires formal bids from the shortlisted lessors, is scheduled to start in the second quarter of 2026. SBB will also launch a separate tender for the manufacturing of the trains under a 15-year full-service contract, including maintenance.

Conclusion

SBB has shortlisted four companies for the leasing of up to 40 high-speed trainsets. The company intends to deploy these trains on international routes, starting in the 2030s. The leasing process is driven by limited capital reserves.

Company Summary

SBB: Swiss Federal Railways.

AlphaTrains: One of the companies shortlisted by SBB.

Beacon Rail: One of the companies shortlisted by SBB.

Rock Rail: One of the companies shortlisted by SBB.

Willow Group: One of the companies shortlisted by SBB.

SBB Cargo: Swiss Federal Railways.

Hupac: Swiss rail freight forwarder and logistics operator.

Siemens Mobility: A mobility and infrastructure solution provider.

Südleasing: Leasing company.