After more than a decade of absence, the city of La Chaux-de-Fonds in the Swiss canton of Neuchâtel is witnessing a renaissance of electric urban transport. On 20 February 2026, regular trolleybus services officially resumed on Line 302 (Tourbillon – Gare – Combe-à-l’Ours), marking the return of trolleybuses to the city’s streets.
Historical background
La Chaux-de-Fonds inaugurated its first trolleybus network in 1949, gradually replacing the former tramway system. For several decades, trolleybuses formed the backbone of the city’s public transport network. However, operations were discontinued in 2014, following the reconstruction of the central bus terminal, during which the overhead wiring was removed, and due to the ageing fleet reaching the end of its service life.
A modern concept: trolleybuses with battery operation
The revived system is based on modern battery-equipped trolleybuses with off-wire capability. These vehicles can operate both under overhead lines and independently on battery power, offering operational flexibility in areas without wiring or during roadworks and temporary diversions.
In 2022, the canton of Neuchâtel approved the procurement of 30 new trolleybuses of the “lighTram® 19 DC” model, manufactured by Swiss supplier HESS AG. The total investment, covering both vehicles and the renewal and adaptation of infrastructure—including overhead lines and substations—amounts to approximately CHF 31 million. Part of these vehicles, however, operate in Neuchâtel. While the regional operator transN finances the rolling stock, depreciation costs are borne by the canton and the municipalities.
Infrastructure and operations
Reintroducing trolleybus services required extensive preparatory work. Power supply systems, substations and overhead wiring had to be rebuilt or modernised, and operational staff underwent comprehensive training to adapt to the new vehicle technology and hybrid operating concept.
For 2026, trolleybus operations are initially limited to Line 302, a key urban corridor linking residential and commercial areas with the main railway station and the Charrière district. Further extensions are planned: Line 301 (Recorne – Gare – Arêtes) and Line 304 (Eplatures Nord – Gare – Hôpital) are scheduled to be converted to trolleybus operation from 2028 onwards, subject to vehicle deliveries and the completion of infrastructure works.
Fleet and technical characteristics
The new battery-trolleybuses “lighTram® 19 DC” are approximately 18.7 m long, equipped with battery packs of around 70 kWh, feature four doors and offer a total capacity of around 140 passengers, including seated and standing places. Fully low-floor, they provide step-free access and comply with the latest safety, accessibility and passenger comfort standards. The order was placed by Trans N jointly for Neuchâtel and La Chaux-de-Fonds. We reported here:
Strategic context
The return of trolleybuses forms part of a broader decarbonisation strategy for public transport in the canton of Neuchâtel. Electric traction helps reduce local emissions and noise levels while improving energy efficiency in dense urban environments. The project aligns with both cantonal climate objectives and Switzerland’s national efforts to make the transport sector more sustainable.
Significance for urban mobility
After more than 12 years without overhead electric transport, the reintroduction of trolleybuses represents both a symbolic and practical milestone. By combining traditional trolleybus infrastructure with modern battery technology, La Chaux-de-Fonds has adopted a flexible, future-proof solution for zero-emission urban transport—one that could serve as a model for other medium-sized cities facing similar topographical and operational challenges.
25.02.2026
