Swiss company Müller Technologie has presented the Aeam 841, a new tribrid locomotive designed for shunting, construction sites, and cargo operations.
Tribrid drive system
The Aeam 841's tribrid configuration allows:
- 80% of journeys powered by overhead lines
- 20% of journeys powered by battery or diesel generator
This setup enables the locomotive to operate independently over multiple shifts without relying on external energy sources. Müller Technologie reports an 85% reduction in diesel consumption due to this combination of power options.
Modernization and upcycling
Based on the Am 841 series originally purchased by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) in the 1990s, the Aeam 841 is part of a modernization project that:
- Recycles 28 tons of steel from the original chassis and bogie frames
- Integrates a Stage V diesel engine and advanced battery-electric drive
- Extends the locomotive's operational life by 25 years
This approach aligns with climate protection efforts by reducing environmental impact through upcycling existing materials.
Partnership with Lokpool AG
Lokpool AG, based in Frauenfeld, has ordered five Aeam 841 locomotives, scheduled for delivery in the third quarter of 2025. These units will replace the 12 older Am 841 locomotives currently in service.
Technical collaborations
Müller Technologie collaborated with several partners to develop the Aeam 841:
- ABB Schweiz AG provided:
- Power converters
- Batteries with LTO cell chemistry
- Transformer
- Stadler Signalling AG supplied modern ETCS vehicle equipment with Baseline 3.6
- Ortics GmbH handled:
- Integration of electrical systems
- Vehicle control technology design
- Development of complete vehicle software
- Peko AG was responsible for:
- Procurement and assembly of electrical components
- Vehicle wiring
Compatibility with HVO fuel
The locomotive's modern Deutz diesel generator is approved for operation with 100% HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) fuels. Key points include:
- HVO fuel is made from 100% waste from biological raw materials
- Meets DIN EN 15940 standard for paraffinic diesel fuels
- Can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85%
- Compatible with existing diesel engines without modifications
- Can be mixed with conventional diesel in any ratio
New Process AG supplies the KS HVO 100 fuel, contributing to the locomotive's climate neutrality goals.
Preparing for future technologies
The Aeam 841 is built to accommodate future advancements:
- Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC):
- Chassis designed to handle higher tensile and compressive forces
- Plans to test CargoFlex hybrid coupling heads in cooperation with JM Voith SE & Co. KG
- DAC is expected to replace screw couplings in Europe by 2030 to increase efficiency and safety in freight transport
By introducing the tribrid Aeam 841 locomotive, Müller Technologie focuses on sustainable solutions in rail operations. The combination of multiple drive options, modernization of existing equipment, and preparation for future technologies positions the Aeam 841 as a versatile asset in the shunting and cargo sectors.
