Major Contract on the Gotthard: We Are Providing the Tunnel Ventilation System for One of Europe's Most Important Infrastructure Projects
The Gotthard Road Tunnel is one of Europe’s most important transportation links — and we are part of its future. With the largest project to date since our acquisition by PowerChina, we are playing a key role in modernizing the tunnel’s ventilation system.
We have reached a milestone in our company’s history with the contract to modernize the Gotthard Road Tunnel in Switzerland. This project, the largest since our acquisition by Power Construction Corporation of China (PowerChina), highlights our international expertise in complex tunnel infrastructure.
A Key Project for European Transportation
The Gotthard Road Tunnel is one of Europe’s most important transportation links. With a length of approximately 16.9 kilometers, it was the world’s longest road tunnel when it opened in 1980. To ensure the long-term safety and efficiency of this important north-south corridor, the existing tunnel tube is undergoing extensive renovation and will be supplemented by a second tube.
The infrastructure project, with a total budget of approximately 2.5 billion Swiss francs, is considered a milestone for Switzerland’s transportation infrastructure. New cross-passages, additional breakdown lanes, and modern ventilation systems will significantly enhance safety during tunnel operations.
Our Role in the Project
We are supplying 44 variable-pitch axial fans, each with a capacity of up to one megawatt, as well as other key components for tunnel ventilation.
Our scope of work extends far beyond simply supplying the equipment. We are responsible for the engineering, project management, installation, commissioning, and testing of the systems. These ventilation systems are crucial for ensuring the safety of road users and emergency responders, especially in the event of a fire.
"This project holds special strategic and technical significance for us," says Managing Director Gerd Jegodzinski. "The Gotthard Tunnel is one of Europe’s most important transportation links. Being selected for this challenging project underscores our expertise in complex tunnel infrastructure.”
A Landmark Project
According to Jürgen Steltmann, Head of the Tunnel and Metro Segment, our technical capabilities, track record in tunnel construction, and economic and organizational expertise in large-scale infrastructure project implementation were decisive factors in winning the contract.
The project, which has a contract value in the mid-double-digit millions, will be carried out from 2026 to 2033. Our teams at our headquarters in Zweibrücken and at our manufacturing facility in Bad Hersfeld will manage it.
Our involvement in the Gotthard project further strengthens our position in the international infrastructure business and contributes to the modernization of one of Europe’s most significant transportation corridors.
