RAe TEEII 1051 - 1054 (Trans-Europe Express)

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Source: maurizio messa

RAe TEE^II 1051 - 1054 "Trans-Europe Express"

Also known as:

RABe EC

Vehicle type:

Electric multiple unit - EMU

Registration country:

Switzerland

Railway companies:

SBB CFF FFS - Schweizerische Bundesbahnen / Chemins de fer fédéraux suisses / Ferrovie federali svizzere

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In service:

from 1961

Era:

III - VI

Built by:

Gauge:

Standard gauge (1'435 mm)

Electric systems:

1,5 kV DC
15 kV AC / 16,7 Hz
25 kV AC / 50 Hz
3 kV DC

Current collectors:

Pantograph - Symmetrical

Length over buffers (mm):

125'334 mm*
*for the 5-car set
149'760 mm*
*for the 6-car set

Width (mm):

2'840 mm

Height (mm | over lowered pantograph):

4'210 mm

Tare weight (t):

259 t*
*for the 5-car set
309 t*
*for the 6-car set

Number of traction motors:

Power output (x'xxx kW / x'xxx hp):

2'310 kW

Tractive effort (kN / lbf | starting / continuous):

79,8 kN*
*for others
81,6 kN*
*for 15 kV

Powered wheels diameter (x'xxx,xx | mm | new / worn):

1'110 mm

Unpowered wheels diameter (x'xxx,xx | mm | new / worn):

940 mm

Maximum speed (km/h):

160 km/h

RAe TEE 1051 - 1054

Display registration numbers

1051
1052 1 x
1053
1054
1055

Vehicle’s history

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1961

The RAe TEE II makes its debut, a manifestation of exceptional Swiss engineering, created by manufacturers SIG and MFO. Four units, numbered 1051 to 1054, commence their service. Each trainset, resplendent in its 5-car formation (At-Re-WR-A-At), is a symbol of luxury and technological advancement. Passengers experience unparalleled comfort, travelling internationally with ease, courtesy of the train’s compatibility with multiple electrification systems.

1962

Tragedy strikes when RAe TEE II 1053 is involved in a severe accident near Montbard. Amidst the adversity, improvements in safety measures are emphasized, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of the engineering and operational teams.

1965

Adaptations to service are in motion; the "Gottardo" now begins its journey from Basel, demonstrating flexibility and responsiveness to passenger needs and operational efficiencies.

1966

Innovation continues. The RAe TEE II trainsets are lengthened, marking a direct response to increased passenger demand and the continuous evolution of luxury rail travel.

1967

The fleet expands with the introduction of unit 1055. This addition, already lengthened, underscores the train’s popularity and the sustained demand for international, first-class rail service.

1974

Changes are afoot. The "Cisalpin" transitions to a locomotive-hauled train and the "Ticino" is discontinued. The RAe TEE II exhibits its versatility, taking over the "Edelweiss" and "Iris" routes with grace.

1979

The journey of the "Gottardo" from Basel is now a weekday affair, a change that marks a nuanced adaptation to the complex tapestry of passenger demand and operational logistics.

1982

Another shift occurs; the Basel to Zurich section is entirely withdrawn. Each change, though seemingly minute, weaves into the intricate narrative of the RAe TEE II’s storied journey.

1988

A significant milestone. The "Gottardo" concludes its last TEE service from Milano to Zurich. The RAe TEE II undergoes a transformation, evidencing the adaptability ingrained in its design. Its formation changes to At-A-Re-WR-A-At, and it now accommodates both first and second-class passengers.

1993-1999

A series of reductions in service prelude the RAe TEE II's retirement in 1999. Yet, amidst the withdrawal, the enduring legacy of these iconic trainsets is indisputable. They are not just machines but intricate tapestries of history, engineering, and luxury.

2003

Unit 1053 is meticulously restored by the SBB Historic foundation. Each refurbishment detail is a nod to the train’s original grandeur, an homage to an era where rail travel epitomized luxury and international connectivity.

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