Waldenburg Railway Enters New Era of Automation with Stadler’s NOVA Pro Signalling Technology

Waldenburg Railway Enters New Era of Automation with Stadler’s NOVA Pro Signalling Technology

(IN BRIEF) Stadler has enabled Switzerland’s first semi-automated GoA2 railway operation, with BLT Baselland Transport AG launching the new mode on the Waldenburg Railway following approval from the Swiss Federal Office of Transport. Powered by Stadler’s NOVA Pro communications-based train control system, trains operate automatically under driver supervision, improving punctuality, efficiency and reliability. The initiative forms part of a wider modernisation programme including new rolling stock and upgraded infrastructure, with plans for fully automated depot operations from 2026, positioning the Waldenburg Railway as a national pioneer in digital rail automation.

(PRESS RELEASE) WALLISELLEN, 29-Jan-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Stadler has enabled a landmark step in Swiss rail automation, with the Waldenburg Railway becoming the first railway line in Switzerland to launch semi-automated GoA2 operations. Thanks to modern signalling technology developed by Stadler, BLT Baselland Transport AG has received approval from the Swiss Federal Office of Transport to introduce this new mode of operation on the Liestal–Waldenburg line, marking a decisive move toward fully digital rail operations.

At the core of the project is NOVA Pro, Stadler’s newly developed communications-based train control (CBTC) system, engineered at its Wallisellen site. The system enables continuous, direct communication between trains and trackside safety equipment, forming the foundation for digitally controlled and automated train movements. Once the driver authorises departure and the doors are closed, the journey is managed automatically by the system.

In GoA2 operation, NOVA Pro controls acceleration, braking and speed regulation, ensures compliance with permitted speed limits, optimises the management of level crossings and brings trains to a precise stop at stations. A train driver remains on board to supervise operations and intervene if required, reducing routine workload while improving punctuality and operational consistency.

The launch of semi-automated operation is part of a comprehensive modernisation of the Waldenburg Railway. Since the end of 2022, ten new Stadler trainsets manufactured in Valencia have been operating on the line, alongside the complete renewal of the 13-kilometre infrastructure. The upgrade includes new tracks, modernised stations and a new generation of signalling and control systems, underscoring BLT’s commitment to future-oriented rail transport.

Automation at the Waldenburg Railway is set to progress further. From the end of 2026, BLT plans to introduce fully unattended vehicle manoeuvring in the newly built Waldenburg depot, achieving full automation of depot operations under GoA4. This next phase will further enhance efficiency and demonstrates a clear roadmap toward increasingly automated rail systems.

By pioneering GoA2 operations, the Waldenburg Railway highlights the potential of digital train control to deliver more uniform, resource-efficient and energy-efficient services. For Stadler, the project represents a significant milestone in the advancement of modern signalling technologies and a key contribution to the evolution of automated rail transport in Switzerland.

GoA in rail operations

The Grades of Automation (GoA) describe the level of automation in train operations. The scale ranges from GoA0 (fully manual operation) to GoA4 (fully automated, driverless operation).

GoA0 – Manual train operation
The train driver controls the train entirely manually. All driving tasks, door operations and safety functions are carried out by the driver.

GoA1 – Manual operation with supporting systems
The train driver remains fully responsible but receives technical support, for example through automatic train protection systems (speed and braking supervision). All decisions and driving actions remain with the human operator.

GoA2 – Semi-automated operation
The system (Stadler NOVA Pro) takes over driving and braking. A train driver remains on board, supervises operations and can intervene if necessary.

GoA3 – Highly automated, driverless operation with on-board staff
There is typically no train driver in the cab. The system operates the train autonomously, while a staff member is on board to handle tasks such as passenger assistance or emergency situations.

GoA 4 – Fully automated, driverless operation (UTO – Unattended Train Operation)
The train operates fully autonomously, without any staff on board. Monitoring and control are performed from the operations control centre.

About Stadler

Stadler has been building trains for more than 80 years. The provider of mobility solutions in rail vehicle manufacturing, service and signalling technology is headquartered in Bussnang in eastern Switzerland. Around 17,200 employees work at 8 production sites, 6 engineering locations and more than 80 service sites worldwide, including approximately 6,000 in Switzerland. Stadler is the world’s leading manufacturer of vehicles with alternative propulsion systems (hydrogen and battery) as well as rack railway vehicles. The company is committed to its social responsibility for sustainable mobility and therefore stands for innovative, sustainable and durable high-quality products.

Stadler Signalling offers tailor-made control and signalling solutions for mainline, branchline, LRV, metro and depot applications. Our interlockings, signalling systems and automation technologies ensure precise control and maximum safety in rail operations, and are characterised by reliability, efficiency and the highest safety standards.

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Media contact

Alessa Wesener
Head of Communications & Marketing Division Signalling
Telefon: +49 531 273 00 766
E-Mail: medien@stadlerrail.com
www.stadlerrail.com

www.stadlerrail.com

SOURCE: Stadler