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.

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.

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.