Unobstructed view of the Matterhorn: Gornergrat Bahn orders further Stadler trains for spectacular Alpine route

The Gornergrat Railway (GGB) and Stadler are further expanding their proven partnership: having ordered five rack-and-pinion trains in 2019 and an additional vehicle in 2024, the railway has now commissioned Stadler to build four further trains, with delivery scheduled for early April 2026. The first five POLARIS-type rack-and-pinion trains are already in reliable service and define the travel experience on one of Europe's most famous mountain routes.

With this new order, GGB is replacing older vehicles and continuing its fleet modernisation programme. The vehicles are being built specifically for the demanding conditions of the high-alpine environment and the route from Zermatt to the Gornergrat. The powerful rack-and-pinion drives effortlessly tackle even the steepest gradients of 200‰. "With the additional POLARIS multiple units, we are making a targeted investment in quality, comfort and reliability," says Egon Gsponer, CEO of Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn and Gornergrat Bahn.

Generous panoramic windows offer views of the Matterhorn and the majestic mountain scenery of the Valais Alps. The bright, open and comfortable passenger compartments further enhance the travel experience for passengers. The trains feature low-floor access and are fully accessible. The modern interior and exterior design was created by the renowned Italian design studio Pininfarina.

"The Gornergrat Railway operates one of the most spectacular and famous railway lines in the world. We are proud that our trains travel through this unique Alpine landscape every day, offering passengers an unforgettable experience. This repeat order is a strong sign of confidence in our rolling stock and our expertise in the field of rack-and-pinion railways," says Dennis Laubbacher, CEO of Stadler Bussnang.

Ivan Pfammatter, Head of Rolling Stock at Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn, agrees: "The POLARIS multiple units are optimally designed for the conditions of the Gornergrat line and, thanks to modern technology and high performance, increase our operational flexibility."

The four new cogwheel multiple units will be manufactured at the Stadler plant in Bussnang (TG). Delivery is scheduled for autumn 2028. The vehicles will be ready for regular service from winter 2028. The contract value for the four vehicles amounts to around 30 million Swiss francs.

Caption contract signing (from left to right):André Kurmann, Head of Sales Tailormade at Stadler;Dennis Laubbacher, CEO of Stadler Bussnang;Egon Gsponer, CEO of Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn/Gornergrat Bahn;Ivan Pfammatter, Head of Rolling Stock at Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn/Gornergrat Bahn.