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Battery trolleybus operating under the expanded catenary network in Biel, Switzerland.

Managing the planning and procurement of the trolleybus catenary network expansion

Customer: Verkehrsbetriebe Biel, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Overall project management
  • Integrated project planning
  • Stakeholder management
  • Authority coordination
  • Interface management
  • Procurement management
  • Tendering and contract award
  • Funding coordination
  • Risk and Quality management
  • Communication and reporting
  • Supplier management

Our approach

To support the introduction of a new battery trolleybus fleet, Verkehrsbetriebe Biel is expanding its existing trolleybus catenary network by approximately 2.4 km in the Bözingen district. The project also includes the construction of a new traction power substation to ensure a reliable power supply and network stability. PROSE was appointed to provide overall project management for the concept phase, including the preliminary design, detailed design for the planning approval procedure, and the preparation and execution of all procurement activities.

Based on VB’s fleet strategy and initial technical assessments, PROSE assembled an interdisciplinary external planning team covering catenary systems, traction power substations and civil engineering. In parallel, we managed the ongoing network studies and ensured their continuous alignment with the project requirements and the operational concept.

During the preliminary design phase, PROSE focused on man-aging technical interfaces, coordinating with authorities and landowners, and addressing funding and financing matters. From the very beginning, we actively engaged all relevant stakeholders to ensure alignment and support efficient project delivery.

For the detailed design and planning approval phase, we developed the planning approval documentation together with the specialist designers and ensured its completeness, consistency and quality. During the preparation and approval process, we acted as the central point of contact for all authorities and stakeholders. In parallel, we prepared the tender and procurement documentation for civil works, poles, catenary systems, transformers, rectifiers and other work packages, and supported Verkehrsbetriebe Biel in bid evaluation and contract award preparation.

Customer benefit

With PROSE, Verkehrsbetriebe Biel gained a partner capable of leading a technically and organisationally complex infrastructure project. Thanks to our team’s extensive experience, key topics were addressed proactively and at the right stages of the project. This enabled the successful completion of the entire concept phase – from the preliminary design and planning approval stages through to securing funding and managing the procurement processes – within just two years.

As the single point of contact, PROSE coordinated all specialist planners, authorities and other stakeholders involved in the project. This streamlined communication, accelerated decision-making and ensured that the customer was involved in project governance in a targeted and appropriate manner. As a result, Verkehrsbetriebe Biel was able to focus its resources on its core operational activities, while the needs of all stakeholders were efficiently captured and addressed in a timely manner.

 

 

Modernised lower station of the Leubringen Funicular in Biel, Switzerland, following automation and accessibility upgrades led by PROSE.

Leading the modernisation and automation of the Leubringen Funicular

Customer: Verkehrsbetriebe Biel, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Overall project management
  • Client representation
  • Project organisation and governance
  • Stakeholder management
  • Authority coordination (Federal Office of Transport (FOT) and cantonal authorities)
  • Procurement and tender management
  • Schedule, cost and risk management
  • Coordination of civil works, infrastructure and ropeway engineering
  • Quality assurance and project reporting

Our approach

The Leubringen Funicular connects Biel with Evilard and is an important transport link for commuters, residents and visitors in Switzerland. As part of a comprehensive modernisation programme, the line was automated and upgraded to improve safety, reliability, accessibility and long-term operational performance.

The project included the renewal of the control and safety systems, platform screen doors, passenger monitoring, communication and camera systems, as well as the overhaul of the vehicles, drive system, brakes, haul rope and infrastructure. Accessibility improvements were implemented in accordance with the Swiss Disability Discrimination Act (BehiG). All all work was carried out in compliance with ropeway regulations and the requirements of the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT).

PROSE acted as the client’s representative and overall project manager, providing independent leadership throughout the project lifecycle. We established a structured project organisation based on HERMES (Swiss Federal Administration’s standard project management methodology) and SIA (Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects) principles, coordinated multidisciplinary workstreams and managed the interfaces between authorities, suppliers, designers and operators.

Our responsibilities included procurement and contract management, approval support, project communication, quality assurance, and the management of cost, schedule and risk from project initiation through to commissioning.

Customer benefit

By acting as the client’s representative and overall project manager, PROSE provided a single point of coordination across all technical disciplines and stakeholders. Our structured approach reduced project complexity, supported regulatory compliance and enabled informed decision-making throughout the project.

The completed modernisation provides the foundation for higher transport capacity, improved operational reliability, enhanced passenger safety and accessibility while creating the foundation for a longer service life of the Leubringen Funicular. As an independent engineering and consulting partner, PROSE delivered objective technical expertise while safeguarding the client’s interests throughout the project.

 

     

TILO FLIRT train of SBB in Switzerland during service life extension project, modern electric multiple unit on track.

Vehicle life extension TILO FLIRT

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Overall project management of the TILO FLIRT service life extension
  • Project reporting to the steering committee
  • Project planning and realisation of the detailed concept phase
  • Funding application ARPV
  • Project planning and implementation of the realisation phase
  • Leading the SBB project team

Our approach

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) operates 54 Flirt trains with TILO. These trains were purchased in five phases between 2007 and 2020 and were designed for a service life of 25 years. In order to be able to replace all TILO Flirt trains simultaneously as part of a new procurement project, SBB plans to extend the service life of the two oldest sub-fleets to 32 years.

PROSE is responsible for the overall management of the project to extend the service life of the TILO train fleet. Over 2 ½ years, we led a dedicated project team within SBB, ensuring seamless collaboration between customer requirements, technology, development, production, quality, and supply chain management.

A key milestone was the detailed concept phase, where PROSE’s structured approach ensured that requirements management, technical concept development, and prototype conversion were all completed on time and within budget. Our expertise in certification played a crucial role in securing the necessary licences for both Switzerland and Italy, a fundamental step in keeping the project on track.
PROSE also spearheaded the successful funding application (ARPV) to the responsible cantons and the Federal Office of Transport (FOT), securing approval to finance the conversion of the entire fleet of 30 trains.

During the production phase, we worked closely with the SBB production plant to ensure a smooth transition to series conversion. With production successfully underway, PROSE carefully handed over the project to SBB, ensuring continued progress and a reliable future for the TILO fleet.

Customer benefit

With PROSE as a partner, the customer benefits from comprehensive expertise in the areas of project management, stakeholder management, project planning, change management and cost control. An entrepreneurial approach, sound technical knowledge, but also knowledge of SBB processes and organisation are essential for successful project implementation.

Beyond technical know-how, our understanding of SBB’s processes and organisation was a key factor in keeping the project on track. By working with PROSE, the customer was able to bridge resource gaps, tap into our extensive railway industry network, and benefit from independent, expert advice that led to a successful project outcome.

 

    

Technical support and documentation for the modernisation of the EMU class 72

Customer: Alstom, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Requirements capture
  • Electrical system engineering
  • Technical writing

Our approach

PROSE provided technical support and documentation for the modernisation of the EMU vehicle class 72. An electrical systems engineer ensured that key upgrades—such as LED front lighting, USB ports, and interior lighting—met modern standards. In addition, two technical writers were assigned to update the existing technical documentation to reflect the improvements.

Our electrical systems engineering team took a methodical approach to ensure that all subsystems met functional requirements and complied with current standards and regulations. Our focus was to check subsystems such as LED front lights, USB contacts and passenger information systems (PIS). When we found gaps between existing components and required standards, we recommended improvements. Our thorough approach ensured that every aspect of the electrical system was optimised for modern operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Customer benefit

Our expertise allowed for a quick project start, helping the customer save valuable delivery time. ALSTOM also appreciated PROSE’s support on safety and regulatory matters, ensuring all requirements were met efficiently.

 

      

Engineering project IC2020-fleet

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Creation of technical concepts
  • Preparation of the technical procurement documents BöB/VöB
  • Technical evaluation of suppliers
  • Preparation of the technical documentation for the retrofit
  • Accompanying prototype production on site in Olten
  • Updating commissioning instructions
  • Updating maintenance documents
  • Support in the approval process
  • Creation and monitoring of weight management

Our Approach

In a first step PROSE investigated the measures identified by SBB in the study phase and worked out the concept. PROSE prepared the technical procurement documents, such as specifications, technical requirement catalogues and interface drawings. The offers submitted by the potential suppliers were technically evaluated by PROSE and adjusted in the course of the technical negotiations. In the detailing phase, the system to be delivered was integrated into the vehicle documentation in cooperation with the suppliers who were awarded the contract by SBB.

Customer benefit

An international team of specialists from 4 countries is involved in the project at PROSE. Due to the project organisation PROSE is close to the customer SBB and therefore part of the overall project team. The creation of the production documents was done directly in the IT environment of SBB.

 

Mid-life maintenance of PRIMA BB27000 and BB37000 locomotives

Customer: AKIEM, France

Project tasks

  • Definition of the operations to be carried out for the mid-life maintenance of PRIMA locomotives
  • Identification of ways to increase reliability
  • Treatment of component obsolescence
  • List of changes that can be implemented in mid-life operation
  • Solutions for a hardware refresh
  • Definition of the industrialization process for mid-life
  • Analysis of the risks associated with the residual life of the equipment

Our Approach

PROSE has developed a high level of expertise in the PRIMA-E locomotive type, maintenance definition and reliability growth action plan.

Customer benefit

Thanks to its expertise in the field of rolling stock, over the entire life cycle, PROSE can offer its best services to accompany its customer through all the stages of the life of its locomotives.

Technical documentation in the SJ X2000 refurbishment project

Customer: SJ AB, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Technical documentation
  • Translation
  • Coordination
  • Verification

Our Approach

PROSE contributed to the project by assisting in creation of new technical documents for the refurbished train fleet, as well as with translation, coordination, and internal review. Around 400 documents have been created for the project, and subsequently reviewed by the customer. PROSE’s team of technical writers contributed to update, and create new system manuals, maintenance manuals, spare parts catalogues, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic data sheets (DDS lists), component sheet, training documentation, etc.

Customer benefit

PROSE supported ABB and Stadler in the creation and translation of new technical documentation for SJ. The documentation was created in the office, combined with work in the depot, to make sure every product/function was clearly described. This helps operators to understand the updated products and systems, ensures correct use of the products and guarantees safety in maintenance work.

Implementation of the approval project for lifting platforms used on tunnel maintenance vehicles

Customer: SBB Infrastructure, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Homologation management
  • Risk analysis on system level
  • Verification of stability by calculation
  • Verification of occupational safety, railroad safety

Our Approach

In a first phase, the basics for approval had to be elaborated for the two applications. Then, the feasibility was evaluated concluding a proof of stability, but also regarding commercial aspects. The necessary measures were derived here after to ensure safe operation. This report was discussed with the customer and the responsible authority (FOT).  In the second phase, the customer implemented the measures, PROSE controlled this implementation and prepared an evidence report.

Customer benefit

With the practical knowledge of the involved persons from SBB and PROSE, simple, cost-effective and practicable measures could be realized. The step by step process lead to legal certainty without investment before it was clear, that the project will reach its objective. By considering worker’s safety from the very beginning, the approval process could be simplified. Thus, no separate approval with a second approval authority was necessary, reducing time and costs as well as the related approval risk.

Support for procurement of catenary line installation vehicle

Customer: Furrer+Frey AG, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Technical clarification, evaluation
  • Preparation and negotiation of the contract framework
  • Project management and client representation
  • Examination of the railspecific specifications
  • Manufacturing supervision
  • Homologation support in Switzerland, Germany and Austria
  • Service introduction support

Our Approach

In the tender phase Furrer+Frey AG entrusted PROSE with the technical clarification for the evaluation as well as with preparation and negotiation of the contract framework. In the execution phase PROSE officially represented the customer.

Customer benefit

Furrer+Frey AG profits from PROSE’s vast experience with procurement of rolling stock and from PROSE’s rail-specific expert knowledge. Competent and experienced experts provide support in the fields of design, development, manufacture and homologation of vehicles so that the customer does not have to provide project-specific resources. The project team managed by PROSE realizes early delivery of a customized vehicle adapted to the company’s work processes. The positive operating approval for Switzerland is included and the budget limit not exceeded.

Support for procurement of a road-rail motor tower car

Customer: BERNMOBIL, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Requirements management
  • Contract for work and materials as well as call for tenders
  • Evaluation of tenders
  • Examination of the specifications
  • Manufacturing supervision
  • Acceptance support
  • Test support FOT

Our Approach

In the tender phase BERNMOBIL engaged PROSE with requirements management, which included the preparation of the requirements specification and all other documents needed for the public request for tenders. Apart from the technical specifications, this also included work and material contracts, availability and reliability requirements, the evaluation model with assessment matrix, and general conditions for the future maintenance and support contract covering the first ten years of operation.

Customer benefit

BERNMOBIL profited from our vast, practice-oriented experience with procurement of rolling stock, as well as from our rail-specific expert knowledge. PROSE also provided access to competent and experienced contacts who could answer questions regarding the design, development, production and homologation of vehicles. The customer was also able to take advantage from the knowledge acquired by PROSE during the execution phase for all important project steps.

Support for the purchase of low-floor trams

Customer: Basel public transport authority (BVB), Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Capture customer wishes concerning vehicle technology
  • Support documentation of the resulting technical requirements
  • Consider the current state of technology
  • Take account of current technical rules and standards
  • Revise the draft specification
  • Conduct a technical evaluation of the submitted bids

Our Approach

PROSE employs experts with many years’ experience in rail passenger transport. This allowed PROSE to put the tender call in a correct and due form and to state the customer’s requirements so as to facilitate their practical implementation. PROSE also brought in current technical rules and standards and took current laws and regulations into account.

Customer benefit

The customer gained value because the PROSE experts, reduced the commitment of customer resources in the tender call’s development and because PROSE introduced knowledge of current technology and of corresponding systems and components in developing the concept for the tram. PROSE took into account the experience of other public transport agencies in recent rolling stock procurement projects and contributed to a neutral and impartial bid evaluation.

 

Owner’s representative for FLIRT 3 vehicles

Customer: Landesanstalt für Schienenfahrzeuge Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Project tasks

  • Evaluation of project deviations with regard to functional requirements, quality and schedule
  • Supervision of high quality manufacturing of all 66 FLIRT 3 trains
  • Monitoring of vehicle condition/maintenance during operation for the duration of the operation contract (9 years)

Our approach

Once the operator, the vehicle supplier Stadler and the vehicle maintainer have been appointed to carry out the operation Baden-Württemberg, PROSE was engaged with the Technical Controlling. The goal of this Technical Controlling is to ensure a long term maintaining of the vehicle asset value with an owners perspective. This Technical Controlling consist of a development phase and a operational controlling phase. In the development phase the various vehicle assessments we developed and defined. In the operational phase of the project production quality of 66 FLIRT vehicles has been stepwise assessed and reported to the owner. Over the concession period of 9 years the vehicle maintenance quality is regularly assessed and reported.

Customer benefit

The customer benefits from risk minimisation and quality assurance in vehicle procurement. Furthermore, proper executed delivery and homologation are ensured, as is the assurance of the vehicle’s condition during operation and maintenance.

 

 

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