Innovative ‘v+’ Braking System Accelerates MGBahn’s Cogwheel Trains on Steep Alpine Route

Innovative ‘v+’ Braking System Accelerates MGBahn’s Cogwheel Trains on Steep Alpine Route

(IN BRIEF) Matterhorn Gotthard Railway (MGBahn) and Stadler have introduced the world’s fastest rack-and-pinion railway through the launch of the “v+” braking system. This innovative technology, unveiled in Andermatt on a Stadler ORION multiple-unit train, allows cogwheel trains on the steep Andermatt–Göschenen route to achieve downhill speeds of up to 30 km/h, compared to the previous limit of 21 km/h. The new system reduces journey times by four minutes, enhancing operational stability, timetable efficiency, and overall passenger satisfaction. Backed by federal support and authorized by the Federal Office of Transport, the project sets the stage for further upgrades as MGBahn plans to integrate the “v+” system into all new and existing ORION fleets.

(PRESS RELEASE) BUSSNANG, 25-Mar-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Today, Matterhorn Gotthard Railway (MGBahn) and Stadler unveiled a groundbreaking achievement: the world’s fastest rack-and-pinion railway. This milestone was reached through the introduction of the new “v+” braking system, which enables cogwheel trains to navigate the Andermatt–Göschenen route at unprecedented speeds. Developed as part of an innovative project, this state-of-the-art system not only enhances speed but also improves punctuality and overall service reliability, ensuring passengers benefit from quicker and more consistent connections.

In an event held in Andermatt, the two partners presented the first Stadler ORION multiple-unit train outfitted with the “v+” braking system. Operating on the challenging Andermatt–Göschenen line in the Canton of Uri—characterized by a steep gradient of 181‰—the train now achieves downhill speeds of up to 30 km/h. This is a significant improvement over the previous speed limit of 21 km/h, which was set by railway ordinance for rack-and-pinion tracks. Moreover, the enhanced braking capability guarantees that the train can decelerate within the required safety parameters.

The implementation of this advanced braking system has resulted in a reduction of journey times by four minutes, lowering the travel duration from 15 minutes to 11 minutes. As a result, MGBahn can now maintain a half-hourly service on the Andermatt–Göschenen section using just one train in rotation instead of two. These time savings contribute to a more stable timetable and improved connections for passengers.

Christoph Leiterer, Head of Engineering for the Tailor Made division at Stadler, emphasized the value of the new system: “The ‘v+’ braking system offers significant advantages for both operators and passengers. It enables shorter journey times, more efficient service intervals, and ultimately more reliable timetables. We are excited to see other rack railways adopt this innovative technology for future upgrades.” The project was a joint effort, spearheaded by MGBahn and developed in close collaboration with Stadler. It also received financial backing from the federal government and was authorized by the Federal Office of Transport (FOT).

Ivan Pfammatter, Head of Rolling Stock & Traction at MGBahn, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “Our goals have been achieved—we will be traveling faster in the future, and our guests will benefit from quicker, more stable connections. This technology is set to deliver noticeable improvements to our operations.” Following the successful commissioning of the new braking system, MGBahn has decided to equip all 25 newly ordered ORION multiple-unit trains, scheduled for delivery beginning in 2026, with the “v+” technology. Additionally, the existing fleet of 11 ORION trains will be retrofitted with this advanced system.

About Stadler

Stadler has been building trains for over 80 years. The provider of mobility solutions in rail vehicle construction, service and signalling technology has its headquarters in Bussnang in eastern Switzerland. More than 15,000 employees work at several production and engineering sites and over 80 service locations, including over 5,600 employees in Switzerland. The company is aware of its social responsibility for sustainable mobility and therefore stands for innovative, sustainable and durable quality products. The product range in the mainline and urban transport sector includes high-speed trains, intercity trains, regional and suburban trains, underground trains, tram-trains and trams. Stadler also manufactures mainline locomotives, shunting locomotives and passenger coaches. Stadler is the world’s leading manufacturer of rack-and-pinion railway vehicles.

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Media contact

Alessandra Silvestri
Communications specialist Stadler
Phone: +41 71 626 19 19
E-Mail: medien@stadlerrail.com
www.stadlerrail.com

SOURCE: Stadler