Swiss is globally recognized for its punctuality and its ability to overcome the most complex geographic challenges. At the heart of this nation is the monte Pilatus and to reach its summit you can use a train that defies all logic.
Since its inauguration at the end of the 19th century, this structure has transported thousands of visitors to the top of the monte Pilatusdefying the laws of gravity through a unique and safe traction system.
The origin of this feat dates back to the vision of Eduard Locher, an engineer who designed a horizontal gear system to prevent the wheels from jumping off the rails. This innovation was necessary because the slopes exceed forty percent, a figure that conventional trains could not cope with.
This structure has transported thousands of visitors to the top of Mount Pilatus. (Photo: Pilatus).The route extends for about four and a half kilometers, passing through dense coniferous forests, solid rock tunnels and high altitude meadows.
Technical innovation and fleet renewal
Recently, the operating company completed an ambitious modernization process to improve the traveler experience. New units were incorporated that have large glass windows, allowing a three hundred and sixty degree view of the natural environment.
These modern vehicles maintain the essence of the original design, but integrate latest generation braking systems and much more efficient electric motors and respectful with the environment. During the ascent, which lasts approximately thirty minutes, the formation climbs stone walls that appear vertical.
The landscape changes drastically as you gain altitude, leaving behind the blue of the Lake of the Four Cantons to give way to the snow-capped peaks. The infrastructure requires rigorous and daily maintenance, given that the mechanical parts are subject to constant pressure due to the angle of inclination of the mountain.
Each unit has three independent braking systems. (Photo: Pilatus).Safety is the central axis of all railway operations in this region. Each unit has three independent braking systems that guarantee absolute arrest even in the most adverse climatic conditions of the high mountains.
At the upper station, at the summit of Mount Pilatus, there is an area for resting passengers, combined with hotels and viewpoints that offer unique views of the Swiss Alps.
This tourist complex is complemented by a cable car, forming a circular circuit that allows you to descend the other side of the massif, thus closing a journey that combines history, technique and impressive natural beauty.
Other curiosities and data about the steepest train in the world
- Winter closure: Due to heavy snowfall and the risk of avalanches, the cog railway only operates during the season from May to November.
- Ascent speed: The formation moves at a constant speed of nine kilometers per hour to ensure the stability of the gears.
- Maximum capacity: The new units have space to transport up to forty people seated, optimizing weight so as not to affect the engine.
- Recovered energy: Current systems allow electrical energy to be recovered during the descent, which is returned to the network to power other climbs.
- Historical record: Despite global technological advances, no other railway formation has managed to overcome the degree of inclination of this track.
