Swiss rail giant Stadler has signed a major €50 million contract with Norwegian public agency Bybanen Utbygging to supply advanced signalling systems for the extension of the tram line in Bergen, Norway. The agreement covers the design, supply and installation of modern train control systems on the new section of line, which will extend to Åsane, a northern suburb of Bergen. The option includes a possible future extension westwards to the Loddefjord area.
Stadler's Advanced Technology and Equipment for Bergen
As part of this important project, Stadler will implement not only the basic components such as track circuits and axle counters, but also the on-board signaling systems for use in trains and the signaling equipment to be installed at the edge of the line. The project also includes train detection systems, modern signal lamps and critically important point heaters.
The company will also equip its operations control center in Bergen with the latest technology. This will include automatic operator workstations, comprehensive simulators and a digital model of the entire Bergen tram network. This will significantly increase operational efficiency and network management. The majority of the systems to be supplied under the contract will be manufactured at Stadler’s dedicated facilities in Braunschweig, Germany.
Bergen Bybanen Network Modernizes with Stadler
All signaling and control systems to be supplied by Stadler for the Bergen tram line fully meet the internationally accepted SIL 2 safety standards. It is also emphasized that some selected critical components have an even higher safety level, SIL 4 certification. These high safety standards aim to ensure passenger and operational safety at the highest level. The installation work for the project is planned to start in September 2025 and the work is planned to be carried out meticulously and completed as soon as possible.
The Bergen Bybanen network currently has a total length of 35 kilometres with 29 stops. The first of the existing lines connects the city centre to Bergen International Airport, while the second line provides access to the Fyllingsdalen district. Stadler’s cooperation with the Bergen public transport system is not new. The company has previously supplied modern Variobahn trams for Bergen Bybanen and is currently ensuring the smooth operation of the network under a separate maintenance contract with operator Tide Buss og Bane.
The main aim of this major line extension project is to significantly improve transport access in the city’s rapidly growing areas. The advanced signalling and control systems provided by Stadler will play a critical role in achieving this goal. These systems will maximise safety, increase operational efficiency and significantly improve passenger comfort in the long term. This investment will make a significant contribution to Bergen’s vision of a sustainable and modern public transport system.
