BLS Cargo Orders Multisystem Locomotives from Siemens

Image Courtesy of Siemens

BLS Cargo, a Swiss rail cargo specialist, has ordered 5 Vectron MS multisystem locomotives from Siemens. The locomotives will be used in cross-border service in Germany, Australia, Switzerland, Italy and the Netherlands. The Vectron locomotives will reach up to 200 km/h and has an output of 6,400 kW. Delivery of these vehicles is going to take place in three phases, and the locomotives are scheduled to enter service in the second half of 2016.

Siemens Vectron Multisystem Locomotives

BLS Cargo conducted comprehensive trial runs and tests of the Vectron locomotive late in 2014 in regard to its energy consumption, traction performance, multisystem controls, operability and serviceability. The Vectron’s overall concept convinced us,” said Dirk Stahl, CEO of BLS Cargo AG.

Jochen Eickholt, CEO of Siemens’ rail business, added: “The outstanding performance of our Vectron locomotive was the decisive factor for this order. The locomotive’s design is based on a forward-looking, flexible concept that not only includes comprehensive country packages for pan-European operation, but also ensures the highest efficiency for our customer across its entire lifecycle.”