(Railfanning.org News Wire) — Transports Montreux-Vevey-Riviera, or MVR AG, has ordered two new hybrid rack-and-pinion locomotives from Stadler.
Stadler is developing the vehicles specifically to maintain the steep route between Montreux and Rochers-de-Naye. They will enter service in 2029.
The order is another part of the comprehensive modernization of the historic mountain railway. Stadler is already building eight new panoramic rack railcars and equipping the route with its NOVA Pro CBTC signaling system.
MVR AG, a company of the Montreux-Berner Oberland-Bahn, or MOB, and Stadler have signed a contract for the delivery of two HGem 4/4 rack locomotives. The locomotives will gradually replace vehicles currently used to maintain railway infrastructure between Montreux and Les Rochers-de-Naye.
The locomotives, which will be built in Bussnang, Thurgau, will enter service in 2029, at the same time as the eight new panoramic railcars MVR ordered in May 2025.
The two new four-axle rack locomotives are being developed specifically for the demanding conditions of the mountain route. With a maximum power output of 1,320 kilowatts and maximum starting tractive effort of 220 kilonewtons, they are designed for operation on the steep rack railway.
The 13.5-meter-long vehicles are designed for an 800-millimeter track gauge and have a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour. Their hybrid propulsion system allows the locomotives to operate using either overhead power or diesel.
Large front and side windows improve visibility for locomotive crews.
The two locomotives are part of a broader modernization of rail service to Rochers-de-Naye, which overlooks the Alps and Lake Geneva. MVR ordered eight newly developed panoramic rack railcars from Stadler in May 2025.
The approximately 40-meter-long trains will accommodate 216 passengers. Stadler developed the passenger trains specifically for tourist service on the route. They will be built in Bussnang and enter service in 2029.
Stadler is also replacing signaling equipment and equipping the approximately 11-kilometer route between Montreux and Rochers-de-Naye with its NOVA Pro CBTC signaling system. The system provides train protection, traffic control and automation functions and will be installed on both the new passenger trains and maintenance locomotives.
Along with acquiring new vehicles and introducing the new signaling system, MVR is investing in the route’s infrastructure. The work includes renewal of the overhead power system and power supply, as well as work on switches and other railway facilities. The work will be completed in stages through early 2029.
By renewing its vehicles, infrastructure and signaling technology, MVR is preparing the rack railway for continued long-term operation.
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