The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 2, Issue 3 (July 1, 1927)
Swiss Railways
Swiss Railways.
No European country occupies a more important part in trans-continental transport than Switzerland. In introducing new and powerful electric locomotives on the St. Gothard trans-Alpine route linking Switzerland with Italy, the Swiss Federal Railways have opened up a new era in European long-distance travel. These massive engines weigh 215,000lbs., and work on the single-phase alternating system, with current supplied by overhead conductor. Electrification of the St. Gothard line, which includes a nine-mile long tunnel beneath the Alps, has revolutionised operating conditions, and enabled fast through runs of five and three quarter hours to be accomplished in the international services between Lucerne and Milan (169 miles).
Aerial View, Southampton Docks, England.
Southampton Docks are owned by the Southern Railway, and cover 200 acres. Direct rail connection is given with London, 78 miles
distant, fast limited trains operating in connection with the steamship movements.