According to various Swiss media, such as the Tages-Anzeiger and Watson, the Regionalverkehr Bern-Solothurn (RBS) will start test runs with an automated or autonomous train in October 2023. This will be “only on routes where there are empty runs” (Watson, September 13, 2023, own translation). According to the media, this would meet the required level of safety. “The test runs were preceded by extensive clarifications and studies – among other things, to clarify this question. At present, it is also being examined whether spatial monitoring of the level crossing is necessary, which is located on the route between Bätterkinden station and the turning track.” (Watson, September 13, 2023, own translation) Worldwide, many subways operate driverless and largely accident-free. Shuttles that travel at low speeds on virtual rails have also been used successfully for years – in Switzerland, the SmartShuttle was a pioneering project. It makes sense to automate rail traffic in this country. There is no doubt that in a few years, passenger transportation will also take this form.
BY OLIVER BENDEL
