SWITZERLAND: BLS has put the first of its Stadler MIKA electric multiple-units into revenue service on the Bern – Neuchâtel route.
Stadler was named preferred bidder for the operator’s largest-ever rolling stock contract in May 2017, beating a rival offer from Bombardier Transportation. Two orders totalling SFr650m were placed in January 2018 and March 2020 and cover 28 EMUs for use on Bern S-Bahn services S2, S4, S5, S6 and S51, and 30 EMUs with interior differences for use on RegioExpress services.
The 160 km/h EMUs will replace EW III coaches and RBDe 565 and RBDe 566 railcars and support a planned expansion of services, with the use of a standardised fleet expected to simplify operations, scheduling and maintenance.
Part of Stadler’s Flirt family, the units have been branded Moderner, Innovativer, Kompakter Allroundzug (modern, innovative, compact, all-round train). They are 105 m long, with spacious low-floor entry areas and large windows. There are power sockets in both first and second class.
The first of the trains entered services on May 10, and they will gradually replace the older stock by the end of 2024.
MIKAs are scheduled to be used on the Thun – Bern - Burgdorf – Langnau route S4 on from June 13, and from the end of 2022 will operate on the Bern – Kandersteg – Brig – Domodossola Lötschberg mountain route and on the Bern – Spiez – Zweisimmen line.
