© trainspo.comSAAS RABDe 510
Built by FFA, BBC, SAAS
Overview of the SAAS RABDe 510
Introducing the RABDe 510, a classic electric multiple unit (EMU) from the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB).
Built between 1965 and 1967 by FFA, BBC, and SAAS, this robust locomotive was designed for efficient and comfortable regional and interurban travel, boasting a top speed of 125 km/h.
With a capacity for 128 passengers (56 first class, 72 second class), the 73-meter long and 170-tonne RABDe 510 is a testament to reliable Swiss engineering.
Featuring a Bo'Bo'+Bo'Bo'+Bo'Bo' axle configuration and a powerful 2444 kW output, this EMU delivers an impressive 239 kN tractive effort. Its 1435 mm standard gauge ensures seamless integration with the European rail network, making the RABDe 510 a enduring symbol of quality and performance.
SAAS RABDe 510 technical specifications
| Value | Imperial / US | |
|---|---|---|
| Built by | FFA, BBC, SAAS · 1965–196720 units | |
| Top speed | 125 km/h78 mph | |
| Power output | 2,444 kW3,277 hp | |
| Tractive effort | 239 kN53,729 lbf | |
| Track gauge | 1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in | |
| UIC axle arrangement | Bo'Bo'+Bo'Bo'+Bo'Bo' | |
| Capacity | 128, 1st class 56, 2nd class 72 seats | |
| Train length | 73 m239 ft 6 in | |
| Weight | 170 t374,785 lb |
Operators of the SAAS RABDe 510
Railway companies that have operated the RABDe 510, with the class designation used by each of them.
| Operator | Class | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Swiss Federal Railways | SBB RABDe 510 | Switzerland |
SAAS RABDe 510 photos
Photos © their respective authors, shared on trainspo.com. They may show liveries or variants that differ from the specifications above.
More electric multiple units from SAAS

SAAS
ABDe 4/4
Electric multiple unit
100 km/h

SAAS
SBB RABDe 8/16
Electric multiple unit
1976 · 125 km/h

SAAS
MThB ABDe 4/4
Electric multiple unit
1965 · 100 km/h

SAAS
RBDe 566 I
Electric multiple unit
1973–1977 · 125 km/h

SAAS
DSF BDe 4/4
Electric multiple unit
1966 · 100 km/h

SAAS
LEB Be 4/4 I
Electric multiple unit
1966 · 80 km/h

SAAS
BLS ABDe 4/8
Electric multiple unit
1945–1964 · 125 km/h

SAAS
MGB ABDeh 8/8
Electric multiple unit
1965 · 55 km/h
Similar electric multiple units from other manufacturers

Firema
FCE CT0
Electric multiple unit
120 km/h · 2,400 kW

Bombardier
BR 376
Electric multiple unit
121 km/h

Derby Carriage and Wagon Works
BR 310
Electric multiple unit
121 km/h

BBC
HHA DT3
Electric multiple unit
1966–1971

Cegielski
EN57FPS
Electric multiple unit
120 km/h

Frichs
DSB MM
Electric multiple unit
1966–1975

J-TREC
Keikyu N1000-1800
Electric multiple unit
120 km/h

Kawasaki
JNR 1500
Electric multiple unit
130 km/h