Stadler and SBB Cargo Switzerland have presented the final design of the new EURO DuFour locomotives at Stadler’s facility in Valencia, Spain.
SBB Cargo became the launch customer for Stadler’s new four-axle locomotive platform in September 2024. The framework agreement covers up to 129 locomotives, with a first batch of 36 units ordered.
Of these first 36 locomotives, 22 will be battery-equipped. This will allow last-mile operation on non-electrified tracks, an important feature for rail freight where industrial sidings and terminals are not always electrified.
The locomotives will be delivered in SBB’s red livery and are intended for operation in Switzerland, Germany and Austria. The initial country configuration can be expanded in the future.
The EURO DuFour platform includes both electric locomotives for 25 kV AC and 15 kV AC operation and hybrid versions with four traction battery modules. The battery equipment provides up to 600 kW of wheel power for last-mile operation, with the technical concept allowing future battery expansion.
According to the technical data, the locomotives will offer up to 7 MW of electric power at the wheel rim, a starting tractive effort of 350 kN and a maximum speed of 160 km/h. They are designed for standard-gauge operation and the Bo’Bo’ axle arrangement.
“SBB is committed to strong freight services. That’s what the new freight locomotive stands for,” said Alexander Muhm, Head of Freight Services at SBB. “The locomotive features state-of-the-art technology: It’s energy-saving while also being very efficient and ready for future innovations. This procurement is an important step towards providing future-proof freight services.”
For Stadler, the project marks its entry into the electric Bo’Bo’ mainline locomotive segment, one of the most widely used categories in European freight transport.
The locomotives are scheduled for commissioning from 2027.
