Swiss rail network expansion and modernization
Switzerland officially launched the "MehrSpur" project to expand the Zurich-Winterthur railway line on July 6, 2026, aiming to increase capacity by 30% with the Brütten Tunnel expected to be operational in 2037. As of July 7, 2026, the Swiss Federal Council also granted the concession for Lausanne's new M3 automated metro line. Work on the 3.3 billion Swiss franc "MehrSpur Zürich–Winterthur" expansion, which includes a new 9-kilometer Brütten Tunnel, began on July 2, 2026, with station upgrades scheduled through 2032. The country is also modernizing its rail network with initiatives like the unveiling of its first hydrogen train on June 25, 2026, and plans to invest CHF 5.2 billion in 85 projects under the "Future Development of Rail Infrastructure" (ZEB) program.
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July 2026 — 3 developments
Switzerland Expands Rail Network with "MehrSpur" Project Launch and Lausanne Metro Concession
Switzerland officially launched the "MehrSpur" project to expand the Zurich-Winterthur railway line on July 6, 2026, aiming to increase capacity by 30% with the Brütten Tunnel expected to be operational in 2037. On July 7, 2026, the Swiss Federal Council granted the concession for Lausanne's new M3 automated metro line, which will connect the central station to the Blécherette neighborhood.
Swiss Rail Expansion: Station Upgrades Scheduled Between 2028 and 2032
The "MehrSpur Zürich–Winterthur" rail expansion project, which began with a groundbreaking on July 2, 2026, has scheduled specific completion dates for station upgrades. The Winterthur Töss station upgrade is slated for late 2028, Bassersdorf station by summer 2030, and Wallisellen and Dietlikon stations by 2032. These upgrades are part of the decade-long project to significantly increase rail capacity.
Construction begins on Swiss "MehrSpur Zürich–Winterthur" railway expansion project
Work has officially begun on the "MehrSpur Zürich–Winterthur" expansion of the Swiss railway network, a project costing approximately 3.3 billion Swiss francs. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on July 2, 2026, marking the start of a ten-year construction period that includes adding a fourth track and constructing a new 9-kilometer Brütten Tunnel.
June 2026 — 2 developments
Switzerland Unveils First Hydrogen Train for Narrow-Gauge Tracks
Switzerland has unveiled its first hydrogen train designed for narrow-gauge tracks, capable of traveling 800 km, as part of its commitment to zero-emission rail travel. This development is in line with ongoing efforts to expand and modernize the country's rail infrastructure, including significant upgrades to lines like Zurich-Winterthur.
Switzerland Pilots Solar Panels Between Railway Tracks for Renewable Energy
Switzerland is piloting the installation of removable solar panels between railway tracks to boost renewable energy generation, a project developed by Swiss startup Sun-Ways. If successful, the project could be expanded across the rail network. The government continues to prioritize rail capacity expansion through 2045 and plans to drop over 30 road projects, with a public consultation scheduled for June.
April 2026 — 12 developments
Switzerland details 2045 rail expansion with specific programs and costs
Switzerland is detailing its significant rail network expansion plans aiming for 2045, including the "Future Development of Rail Infrastructure" (ZEB) program with 85 projects totaling CHF 5.2 billion, and the "STEP ES 2025" and "STEP ES 2035" programs involving around 60 projects costing CHF 5.5 billion. These initiatives aim to increase capacity and improve passenger and freight services.
Switzerland opens rail network to EU companies
Switzerland is opening its rail network to companies from EU countries, allowing them to operate independently on domestic routes under strict regulations. This move is part of a broader effort to modernize and expand the country's rail infrastructure and boost cross-border travel. The government is investing heavily in projects like the New Rail Link through the Alps (NRLA) and upgrades in the Zurich region.
ETH Zurich reviews rising rail costs as Brütten Tunnel construction set for 2026 start
An ETH Zurich review is addressing rising infrastructure costs and potential budget shortfalls for Switzerland's rail expansion plans, particularly for the 2035 phase. Despite these challenges, major construction on the Brütten Tunnel is set to begin in summer 2026, with funding partly supported by a proposed VAT surcharge.
Swiss Federal Railways prioritizes sustainable construction for rail projects
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) is prioritizing sustainable construction methods for its new and ongoing rail projects, including tunnels and station modernizations. This approach aligns with the broader Swiss government strategy for rail network expansion and capacity enhancement.
Switzerland expands international rail services, cancels road projects for 2045 network plan
Switzerland is enhancing international rail services with new direct routes to European destinations like Rimini, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille for the summer. The government is also contributing to German rail network upgrades to improve connections to Swiss cities. These initiatives are part of a broader plan to expand the national rail network by 2045, integrating various transport modes and canceling over 30 road projects, with a public consultation scheduled for June.
Switzerland allocates 16.4 billion francs for rail network maintenance and modernization
Switzerland is allocating 16.4 billion francs for rail network maintenance and modernization between 2025 and 2028. Additionally, Switzerland is investing in the electrification and expansion of a rail network in Germany to enhance cross-border links, with journey times expected to be cut starting in 2027.
Swiss Federal Railways plans new Zurich depot, aims for increased high-speed train services
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) is preparing to acquire up to 40 high-speed trains and plans a new Zurich depot for S-Bahn trains by 2032. By 2035, SBB aims for quarter-hourly services between Zurich and Bern, and half-hourly services on the Bern-Lucerne and Basel-Zurich lines.
Swiss Federal Council approves CHF 10 billion for rail projects, including Zimmerberg Base Tunnel II
Switzerland's Federal Council endorsed the "Transport '45" program in January 2026, allocating at least CHF 10 billion for priority rail projects like the Zimmerberg Base Tunnel II and an expanded Basel SBB hub. The program aims for 15-minute intervals on the Bern–Zürich axis and half-hourly inter-city links nationwide. Additionally, CHF 1.4 billion has been approved for the second construction phase of the Zimmerberg Base Tunnel.
Air Rail expands to Grindelwald, plans enhanced rail connection for Biel/Bienne, Lausanne, Geneva
The 'Air Rail' network has expanded to include Grindelwald as its 25th destination through a new agreement with Jungfrau Railways. Additionally, plans are in place to enhance the rail connection between Biel/Bienne, Lausanne, and Geneva by 2030.
Switzerland plans new high-speed train contracts in 2026 for cross-border travel
Switzerland's government plans to award contracts for new high-speed trains in 2026 to enhance cross-border travel. New direct routes from Zurich to Florence and Livorno are expected in 2026, alongside a nationwide weekend night network from the end of 2026.
SBB invests CHF 755 million in new railway plant, plans Zurich-Winterthur line expansion
SBB is investing CHF 755 million in a new railway industrial plant in Arbedo-Castione, set for completion by 2028, to maintain new electric trains and locomotives. Additionally, major construction for the EUR 3.6 billion Zurich-Winterthur line expansion, including the Brütten Tunnel, is slated to begin in summer 2026, with tunnel excavation starting in 2029 and an expected opening in 2037.
Switzerland proposes CHF 3.4B for public transport, launches new night train routes
The Swiss government is proposing to allocate CHF 3.4 billion between 2026 and 2028 to support regional public transport, with a public consultation planned for June. Swiss Federal Railways will also introduce new night train services, including a route from Basel SBB to Copenhagen/Malmö starting in spring 2026.
March 2026 — 5 developments
Lötschberg Base Tunnel Expansion to Two Tracks Planned by 2034
The expansion of the Lötschberg Base Tunnel to two tracks throughout is planned by approximately 2034. This upgrade aims to increase capacity and operational stability on this critical rail route.
Swiss Government Prioritizes Rail Expansion, Drops Road Projects for Zurich-Winterthur Line
Major construction for the EUR 3.6 billion Zurich-Winterthur line expansion, including the Brütten Tunnel, is slated to begin in the summer of 2026. The Swiss government's national transport plan up to 2045 prioritizes rail expansion, proposing to drop over 30 road projects and fund upgrades through an extended VAT surcharge.
SBB plans 2026 tender for 40 high-speed trains; Zurich-Winterthur line expansion starts 2026
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) is preparing to launch a tender process in 2026 for up to 40 multi-system high-speed trains for cross-border routes to Italy, France, and potentially Barcelona and London. Major construction for the four-lane expansion of the Zurich-Winterthur line, including the Brütten Tunnel, is slated to begin in summer 2026, with the tunnel expected to open in 2037.
Swiss government plans rail network expansion by 2045, aims for quarter-hourly services by 2035
The Swiss government plans to expand its rail network by 2045, including a four-track expansion between Olten and Aarau, and aims for quarter-hourly services between Zurich and Bern by 2035. Funding will be supported by an extension of a VAT surcharge for the Rail Infrastructure Fund.
SBB launches CHF3.3 billion multi-track project and plans to lease 40 high-speed trains
SBB is initiating a CHF3.3 billion multi-track project between Zurich and Winterthur, involving a new tunnel to expand the line to four tracks and increase rail traffic by 30%. Additionally, SBB plans to lease up to 40 high-speed trains for international expansion to France and Italy, extending the TGV Lyria service to 2032.
February 2026 — 2 developments
Swiss Federal Council allocates CHF16.4 billion for railway infrastructure, plans London link
The Swiss Federal Council intends to allocate CHF16.4 billion for railway infrastructure from 2025 to 2028 and plans a direct link to London by 2030. Hitachi Rail secured a CHF1.4 billion contract to modernize the country's signaling infrastructure over the next two decades. The government also proposes extending the VAT surcharge beyond 2030 to fund rail upgrades, potentially raising an additional CHF8 billion by 2045.
Waldenburg Railway launches first Swiss semi-automated GoA2 trains; SWISS and SBB expand Air Rail network
The Waldenburg Railway has become the first Swiss line to operate semi-automated GoA2 trains, approved by the Swiss Federal Office of Transport. Additionally, SWISS and SBB expanded their Air Rail network to include St. Gallen, Konstanz, and Locarno, effective October 27, 2025.
January 2026 — 4 developments
Federal Office of Transport approves Zurich-Winterthur railway expansion and Brütten Tunnel
The Federal Office of Transport approved the expansion of the Zurich-Winterthur railway corridor, including the Brütten Tunnel, and specific routes like Biel/Bienne-Lausanne-Geneva are slated for improvement. Six Swiss cantons have also formally requested the CHF 24 billion rail network expansion.
Swiss government unveils unified transport strategy, prioritizing rail expansion over road projects
The Swiss government has unveiled a unified transport strategy through 2045, prioritizing rail expansion by dropping over 30 road projects. The plan aims to introduce quarter-hourly rail services between Zurich and Bern by 2035. The total budget for rail expansion is projected to reach CHF 24 billion by 2045.
Federal Council confirms La Chaux-de-Fonds-Neuchâtel railway line project
The Federal Council confirmed the direct railway line project between La Chaux-de-Fonds and Neuchâtel, integrating it into the broader transport infrastructure development plan by 2045.
Implenia-led joint venture secures CHF 1.7 billion contracts for Zurich-Winterthur railway project
A joint venture led by Implenia secured contracts worth approximately CHF 1.7 billion for the 'MehrSpur Zurich-Winterthur' project, which includes constructing a new double-track railway line through the 8.3 km Brüttener tunnel.
December 2025 — 1 developments
EU plans high-speed rail expansion, potentially bypassing Switzerland
The European Union is planning an extensive high-speed rail network expansion that could potentially bypass Switzerland, even as the SBB focuses on increasing direct day connections to various European cities.
November 2025 — 1 developments
Siemens Mobility and SBB Sign Agreement to Digitalize Swiss Interlocking Systems
Siemens Mobility and Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) signed a strategic framework agreement to digitalize Switzerland's interlocking systems over the next 20 years, involving the modernization of approximately 500 interlockings with the first commissioning scheduled for 2026.
October 2025 — 1 developments
Swiss Government Plans Transport Network Expansion, Referendums by 2026
The Swiss government outlined its intention to proceed with transport network expansion based on a report from ETH Zurich. The environment and transport ministry is set to propose projects by the end of January 2026, with plans for separate referendums on rail and road decisions.
May 2025 — 1 developments
Federal Council proposes CHF 3.4 billion for public transport 2026-2028
The Federal Council adopted a proposal to provide CHF 3.4 billion to support regional public transport by rail, bus, cable car, and boat between 2026 and 2028, submitting it to Parliament for approval.
January 2025 — 1 developments
Transport Minister Rösti announces new "Transport 45" strategy for road and rail investment
Transport Minister Albert Rösti announced a new "Transport 45" strategy aimed at combining investment in road and rail infrastructure, following the public rejection of road expansion. ETH Zurich was commissioned to advise on the proposal, with results expected by autumn 2025 and a parliamentary decision targeted for 2027.
November 2024 — 1 developments
Swiss Voters Reject Motorway Expansion Plan
Swiss voters rejected a federal government plan to expand key sections of the motorway network, with 52.7% voting against the CHF 4.9-5.3 billion proposal, marking a significant turning point in the country's transport policy.
May 2024 — 2 developments
Swiss Federal Council requests CHF 188.8 million for rail freight investments
The Swiss Federal Council requested CHF 188.8 million for investments in private rail freight facilities, such as terminals and sidings, for the period between 2025 and 2028, with the decision pending parliamentary approval.
Swiss Government Plans CHF16.4 Billion Investment in Railway Infrastructure by 2028
The Swiss federal government plans to invest CHF16.4 billion in railway infrastructure between 2025 and 2028. This represents an increase of CHF2 billion compared to the current period, intended to cover rising prices and provide additional resources for railway projects.
March 2024 — 2 developments
Swiss Parliament approves CHF 3 billion increase for railway programs, endorses 'Perspektive Bahn 2050'
The Swiss Parliament approved key changes to the long-term railway investment programs, Ausbauschritte 2025 and 2035, adding approximately CHF 3 billion to the cost, bringing the total to CHF 23 billion. Parliament also formally approved the overarching "Perspektive Bahn 2050" strategy.
Voestalpine Railway Systems secures long-term contracts with SBB for infrastructure components
Voestalpine Railway Systems has secured long-term contracts with Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) for infrastructure components, including axle counting systems. This agreement is part of broader infrastructure expansion efforts in Switzerland. SBB is also preparing to procure up to 40 new high-speed trains, with tenders expected to launch in 2026.
August 2023 — 1 developments
Federal Council Adopts "Perspective Rail 2050" Strategy, Proposing Major Rail Expansion and CHF 2.6 Billion Funding
The Federal Council officially adopted the "Perspective Rail 2050" strategy, outlining plans for significant expansion of short, medium, and long-distance rail services. This included proposals for new major projects like a tunnel in Canton Vaud, the full expansion of the Lötschberg base tunnel, and the Grimsel tunnel, with a request for an additional CHF 2.6 billion from parliament.