Why does Switzerland not have high-speed rail?

The Swiss Approach: Why Speed Isn’t Everything on the Rails

Switzerland, a country synonymous with precision, efficiency, and breathtaking scenery, might surprise some with its comparatively modest high-speed rail network. While other European nations boast trains hurtling at speeds exceeding 300 km/h, Switzerland’s approach prioritizes a different kind of excellence: reliable, frequent service. This strategic choice reflects a deeper understanding of passenger needs and the unique challenges of the Swiss landscape.

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) 2035 Service Concept clearly articulates this philosophy. Instead of chasing record-breaking speeds, the SBB focuses on significantly enhancing the frequency of train services between major cities. Their ambitious goal: a 15-minute interval between departures on key routes. This commitment to increased capacity and connectivity is a deliberate trade-off, one that sacrifices raw speed for a more comprehensive and user-friendly rail system.

Several factors contribute to this decision. First, Switzerland’s mountainous terrain presents significant engineering challenges for high-speed lines. Constructing high-speed rail infrastructure through the Alps is incredibly expensive and environmentally impactful, requiring extensive tunneling and potentially disruptive land acquisition. The cost-benefit analysis often favors investments in improving existing lines and increasing service frequency over building entirely new high-speed routes.

Second, Switzerland already boasts a remarkably well-developed and efficient rail network. While not the fastest, it’s exceptionally reliable and covers the country comprehensively. The 15-minute frequency target aims to build upon this existing strength, making train travel even more convenient and attractive. For many commuters and travelers, a slightly longer journey time is acceptable if it translates to more frequent departures and less waiting time.

Third, the SBB’s strategy aligns with Switzerland’s commitment to sustainability. While high-speed trains are often marketed as environmentally friendly, the energy consumption required for significantly increased speed can offset these gains, particularly when considering the massive energy expenditure required to build and maintain high-speed lines through challenging terrain. Investing in improved efficiency and increased frequency on existing lines presents a more sustainable approach.

In conclusion, Switzerland’s lack of a sprawling high-speed rail network isn’t a sign of technological backwardness or a lack of ambition. Instead, it reflects a pragmatic and sophisticated understanding of passenger needs, the limitations of the Swiss landscape, and the importance of sustainable infrastructure development. The SBB’s focus on reliable, frequent service represents a different kind of excellence – one that prioritizes connectivity and user experience over sheer speed. This strategy, while seemingly less flashy, offers a potentially more effective and sustainable approach to rail transportation in a unique and challenging geographical context.