The Swiss railroad world in focus: On June 18, the Swiss Museum of Transport opened the new exhibition "Railway Experience Switzerland" - together with top representatives of the railroads, a representative of the Federal Office of Transport, a lively discussion on the future of rail transport and a stylish journey in the legendary "Blue Arrow" right up to the rail hall.

Museum of Transport Director Martin Bütikofer welcomed numerous guests and managers from SBB, BLS, SOB and RhB to the opening ceremony. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of the Swiss Museum of Transport as a platform and meeting place for the railroad community in Switzerland: "The Rail Hall is one of the heart of our museum and attracts numerous visitors every year. The unmistakable smell and the impressive exhibits bring to life the engineering skills and pioneering spirit that have shaped our history. We are therefore all the more delighted to welcome so many guests and representatives of the Swiss railroad world here today. Vincent Ducrot, CEO of SBB, unfortunately had to cancel at short notice due to illness.

Railroad history meets the future

The newly designed rail hall provides an exciting insight into the history and significance of Swiss railroads. Historic vehicles, impressive stories and interactive stations show how rail transport has developed and the role it still plays today. Eight themed areas make it possible to experience how strongly the railroads have shaped Switzerland economically, ecologically, culturally and socially. SBB is the main partner of the exhibition.

A particular highlight is the completely renovated Gotthard Railway model layout. With a length of 31.5 meters and a width of 3.5 meters, it is one of the largest model railroads in Switzerland. Trains make their rounds here every day, delighting visitors of all ages. New to the exhibition of legendary original vehicles are The iconic SBB locomotive Re 4/4 II 11108 "Swiss Express", a dining car from 1967 that can be booked for events, the Ce 6/8 I 14201 "Köfferli locomotive" from 1918, the CFe 2/4 No. 11 railcar of the Lauterbrunnen Mürren mountain railroad from 1913, the Bhe 1/2 No. 21 cogwheel railcar from 1937 of the Pilatus Railway and a "Tintenfisch" shunting tractor.

Top representatives discuss challenges in rail transport

Leading figures from Swiss railroads and the federal administration discussed the future of rail transport at a high-profile panel discussion: Bernhard Meier (SBB), Daniel Schafer (BLS), Renato Fasciati (RhB), Armin Weber (SOB) and Petra Breuer (BAV) provided insights into the current challenges and prospects for public transport in Switzerland. Looking to the future, Bernhard Meier, Head of Public Affairs and Regulator, pointed out the major challenges in the planning, construction and financing of network maintenance and expansion. Because the development of services and infrastructure is a very long-term business, the course must now be set with a focus on financial viability and the greatest possible customer benefit.

The panel agreed that multimodal thinking and action are crucial and that the railroads are only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to overcoming mobility challenges.

The new rail hall is now open to all visitors to the Swiss Museum of Transport. The "Public Transportation Days" will be held next weekend as a further event on the subject.