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In May 2007 RhB placed an order for 15 new electrical multiple units with Stadler Bussnag AG. |
These units designated "Allegra" consist of three coaches each can operate under two different over- |
head line voltages. The new vehicles will be deli vered and commissioned between 2009 and 2012. |
Due to their powerful drives these EMUs can haul loads of up to 140t on the steep Bernina line |
thus eliminating the need of double headings. For the main network operation there is no need to |
develop a new interface with the multiple control system of existing loco or pilot coach classes. The |
"Alegra" units are to replace the entire fleet of aging Ge4/4I 601~610 locomotives but primarily |
the ABe4/4II 41~49 railcars that otherwise would reguire a major overhaul. |
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With the introduction of the EMUs, trains hauled by locomotives or railcars will disappear on most |
parts of the RhB network with the exception for Albula line and "Glacier Express" trains. New |
powerful and air-conditioned EMUs consisting of three to five cars will be the new working horses |
of RhB's fleet. For peak traffic, existing passenger cars that have been retrofitted in recent years |
will be used to complement the EMUs. |
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The fleet is to be updated in four steps. |
Step one includes the introduction of EMUs on the Bernina and Arosa line as well as the restructuring |
of express trains in the Prattigau region Landquart-Davos. The first EMUs will hit the tracks with |
the celebration of the Bernina line centennial. |
The remaining trains will be commissioned until May 2011. |
Step two is to replace the push-pull trains of type Be4/4 511~516 by five four-car EMUs for 11kV |
operation. |
Step three has not been finalized yet. |
It will most likely include seven train sets with a total of 35 passenger cars for use in Albula line trains |
hauled by locomotives. In step four ten EMUs consisting of five cars each are likely to be introduced |
for services on the Diesentis-Chur-Landquart and Landquart-Scuol-Tarasp lines. |