Alstom urges Swedish rail reform with five-point plan
French train manufacturer Alstom has published a report with five recommendations for modernising Sweden’s railway system. The proposals arrive ahead of the Swedish Transport Administration’s preparation of the 2026–2029 infrastructure plan and aim to address punctuality, capacity and digitalisation challenges.
The plan calls for long-term financing models, simpler procurement, faster European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) rollout, stronger maintenance programmes and closer innovation partnerships. Sweden’s rail network faces growing pressure from both passenger and freight traffic, with punctuality falling below 90% on several main routes and capacity utilisation above 80% on critical corridors.
Industry analysts note that the timing is significant, as Trafikverket must submit its next investment plan by late 2025. “We want to inspire decision-makers and industry stakeholders to prioritise work on railway infrastructure,” Alstom said in the report.
Commercial interests and EU context
Alstom is Sweden’s largest rolling stock supplier, with more than a thousand trains delivered and major maintenance contracts. The company has direct interests in expanded investment, but the recommendations echo views from independent transport economists and align with EU priorities for modal shift and digitalisation under the Green Deal and TEN-T policy.
Particular emphasis is placed on accelerating ERTMS implementation, an area where Sweden is behind Denmark and Norway. Alstom is leading several ERTMS projects in Sweden, both on board vehicles and trackside.
The proposals are expected to inform the national debate ahead of the next planning cycle and will add to wider European discussions on how to finance and deliver capacity upgrades.