Sengenthal, Switzerland

Christian Keller is convinced that the unique magnetic levitation system will succeed in setting new standards in public transport.

Designed by Keller and his team at Erfindergeist GmbH, together with Max Bögl, the Transport System Bögl (TSB), inside and outside, leads the future of the innovative local transport system with its consistent minimalism and characterized by the light, modern appearance of a fully automated means of transport.

Transport System Bögl (TSB) is a maglev system for driverless trains developed by the German construction company Max Bögl since 2010. Its primary intended use is for short to medium distances (up to 30 km) and speeds up to 150 km/h for uses such as airport shuttles.

TSB relies on advanced maglev technology. Magnets are installed in the running gear and keep the vehicle on a steel rail mounted on the track using electromagnetic forces.

For locomotion, a linear motor is built into the running gear that can accelerate the Transport System Bögl up to 150 km/h.

This system is quiet, flexible and reliable while also saving space and lowering emissions.

TSB can be integrated into any urban landscape or existing traffic infrastructure.

From planning and the manufacturing of tracks and vehicles to on-site assembly and system operation, we deliver an efficient turnkey system that redefines the future of mobility.

The special feature of the TSB’s vehicle design lies particularly in the combination of modern design language and functionality.

Designer Christian Keller has succeeded in transferring the high technical requirements of the TSB into the vehicle design.

The design meets total technological functionality with its fully automatic driverless passenger transport system with asynchronous short stator linear drive; electromagnetic levitation system with combined carrying and guiding function; and vehicles made up of two to six powered sections with up to 127 persons per vehicle sections.

For the vehicle front, for example, a concept was developed that integrates the uncompromising integration of the front exit into the expressive vehicle front.

A light spoiler structure surrounds the emergency exits at the front and rear.

The spoilers can be adjusted for rear and front operation, which reduces air resistance.

The vehicle technology is integrated compactly and invisibly in the interior.

Floating interior design elements further increase the spatial effect.

The appearance of the vehicle in connection with the track was also a significant aspect in the design development.

The design language of the vehicle, especially the front, was harmoniously integrated into the track to create a seamless connection.

The material also played an important role in this.

Architectural design principles, which gives a rigid concrete structure a dynamic appearance, inspired Christian Keller and his team decisively in the design process of the TSB.

Inside, TSB design features include ergonomic standing areas; between six and twelve seats per section; powerful and silent air conditioning system; floor covered with non-slip natural rubber; and monitors, passenger counting devices, cameras, loudspeakers, and emergency intercoms.

The architecture for the Messner Mountain Museum by Zaha Hadid is said to have had a certain influence on the project.

Slightly convex surfaces, together with the course of parting lines, create a special dynamic.

The basic idea of combining technical components with a timeless design can be found in almost all TSB assemblies.

Project: The Transport System Bögl (TSB)
Designers: Erfindergeist GmbH
Manufacturer: Max Bögl Bauservice Verwaltungs GmbH