📋 Tender Overview
Styrian Westbahn reaches significant milestone: Commissioning of the first electrified section between Graz - Werndorf - Bettmannstatten - Wies/Eibiswald takes place on August 4th
Modernization of the infrastructure brings significant improvement for regional rail traffic
[Note: Radio OT in the download area]
(Graz, July 31, 2025) It is one of Austrias largest electrification and modernization projects: The Styrian Westbahn has been extensively modernized since 2021. With the commissioning of the first section, an important step has now taken place. A total of 91 kilometers of railway line have been modernized since 2021 to make train traffic more sustainable. With the electrification, around 16,000 tons of CO2 can be saved annually, which is a significant contribution to climate protection. According to the current framework plan, a total of 693.1 million EUR will be invested in the project.
First partial commissioning
The first electrically operated section now enables the region to be better connected to Graz and the Koralbahn, which goes into operation at the end of the year. With the link in the new train station in West Styria, mobility in Styria becomes even more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Around 970 masts were set to implement the electrification in this area, 140 t fittings were attached to the masts by hand and 95 km lines were pulled. In addition to the electrification, numerous train stations and stops are also modernized, park & ride systems are expanded and infrastructure measures such as tunnel and intersection work are implemented.
Managing Director Ewald Jantscher, GB GKBI, OBB infrastructure: The successful commissioning of the electrified section between Graz, Wettmannstatten and Wies/Eibiswald is a milestone for sustainable mobility in Styria. With this modernization we are making a clear sign of environmentally friendly, reliable and efficient rail transport. to make regional local transport future -proof and to actively promote climate protection.
Lrin Claudia Holzer, Land Steiermark: With the commissioning of the electrified section on the Styrian Westbahn, Styria is taking a big step towards modernization and attracting public transport. Only those who create better offers will ensure more people and invite even more people to use the train instead of their own private car. Investments are investments in the future in the future Styria, ensure more comfort in passengers and bring the green heart to Austria - but now the other sections that would bring the negative effects by five years have to be proud.
Whats next?
At the same time, the planning for further expansion sections, including new local transport nodes in Graz, are running, which are intended to make it easier to switch between the S-Bahn and inner-city traffic. The modernization of further sections of the route is also in full swing to connect the region to the regional and national transport network even better
Many advantages for passengers
These measures create the basis for a powerful, sustainable and future -proof mobility concept in West Styria and in the southwest of the Graz central area. Passengers benefit from shorter travel times, improved connections, barrier -free train stations and a quieter, more efficient path.
