RAe – TEE II – RABe EC – SBB CFF FFS

RAe TEE II railcars, later renamed RABe EC, epitomize the railway elegance of the 1950s. Designed by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), they were destined for the Trans-Europ-Express (TEE) network, offering luxury service exclusively in first class. These five-car articulated trains were distinguished by their versatility: capable of running under four electrification systems, they easily crossed European borders.

With their emblematic red and cream livery, RAe TEE IIs symbolized comfort and speed, reaching 160 km/h. In the 1990s, after the TEE concept was abandoned, they were modernized to become RABe ECs, also incorporating second class for EuroCity trains. These railcars left their mark on railway history before being retired in 2003, to be replaced by more modern trainsets.