DKV Mobility & Mont Blanc Tunnel: A symbol of movement in Europe

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The Mont Blanc Tunnel is more than just a traffic route – it is a link between two countries, cultures, and economies. Since its inauguration on 16 July 1965, the then-longest road tunnel in the world has carried millions of people and goods beneath the highest mountain in Europe. Today – 60 years later – it is not only an indispensable transport artery between France and Italy, but also setting benchmarks in safety and digital innovation.

Measuring around 11.6 kilometres in length, the tunnel connects the French town of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc with Courmayeur in Italy, linking major economic regions such as Lyon and Turin. Today, around 220 employees work to ensure maximum safety and smooth operations every day – a figure set to rise to up to 300 employees in the coming years, supported by an on-site fire station and towing service. The operator also offers training sessions for transport companies, covering topics such as correct safety procedures in the event of incidents. Digital services complement these measures, providing real-time information on waiting times and traffic conditions via the tunnel’s website and mobile app.

Ongoing investment ensures the tunnel’s long-term future: a comprehensive renovation concept is currently under review – designed to secure the structure and operation for the next century. Another modernization phase is already scheduled for autumn 2025, including partial renewal of the tunnel vault.

This year, however, the Mont Blanc Tunnel is not only celebrating its 60th birthday; it is also a special partnership anniversary: since 1985, the tunnel operator has maintained a close and successful collaboration with DKV Mobility.

In this interview, we look back at milestones, challenges overcome, and future developments.

Newsroom: DKV Mobility and the Mont Blanc Tunnel have been successful partners for 40 years now. How would you describe this journey?

"Over the past four decades, our collaboration has evolved from a straightforward business relationship into a genuine strategic partnership. Together, we have supported the development of transalpine traffic, mastered complex challenges, introduced innovative services, and driven the digitalization of payment systems. DKV Mobility’s reliability and long-term vision have been instrumental in building a partnership based on trust, efficiency, and innovation."

Newsroom: Which moments or technical developments have particularly stayed in your memory?

"The tragic fire in 1999 was especially significant – a turning point that permanently reshaped safety standards for road tunnels across all of Europe. In its aftermath, the tunnel was rebuilt completely, including the installation of state-of-the-art ventilation, video surveillance, and automated control systems. Since then, we have consistently invested in modernization and digital tools, such as predictive maintenance and real-time traffic management.

Our aim is to tackle key challenges: from adapting to climate change to accommodating growing freight traffic and integrating new technologies – always with maximum safety requirements as our top priority."

Newsroom: What do you value most about working with DKV Mobility?

"Above all, we appreciate the flexibility and the ability to adapt both technologically and operationally to the developments in our system. DKV Mobility has played a key role in streamlining transit for hauliers – from efficient payment processes to transparent billing models. Their extensive network and strong industry reputation stand for quality and reliability."

Newsroom: Looking at 40 years of successful collaboration – what does the future hold for this partnership?

"We are on the verge of a major technological step: we are currently preparing the introduction of a new tolling system that combines electronic toll collection with automatic number plate recognition. This will significantly improve traffic flow – with noticeable advantages especially for regular users and freight transport. DKV Mobility’s support will be crucial for its implementation. We are counting on their expertise and close coordination – particularly with regard to seamless system integration."

Newsroom: Thank you very much for the interview – and here’s to many more years of successful cooperation!

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