KiwiRail and Stadler have signed an additional two contracts for the supply of 33 locomotives in New Zealand.
These orders expand Stadler’s presence in New Zealand and strengthen its partnership with KiwiRail as part of the operator’s 1.7 billion NZD investment in rolling stock.
“New mainline locomotives and shunting locomotives mean less maintenance time in the depots and more time on the route to reliably serve our customers. We look forward to the benefits of cutting-edge technology that our long-term relationship with Stadler brings, particularly in light of our goal of decarbonisation.”
The first contract, consisting of nine mainline locomotives equipped with ETCS (European Train Control System), aims to facilitate smooth operations on the North Island. The Co-Co mainline locomotives will be powered by a low-emission diesel engine with an output of 3,000 kW.
This builds on a 2021 order for 57 DM class narrow-gauge locomotives, which Stadler is currently manufacturing. These are primarily set for long-distance transport on the South Island.
Under the new agreement, the final ten Class DM locomotives from the initial order will also be equipped with ETCS. This will enable seamless operations in the Auckland Metro area, which is equipped with the ETCS Level 1 trackside train control system. In addition, the locomotives will be able to operate safely in the Wellington Metro area once the trackside signalling system is upgraded to ETCS.
Meanwhile, the second contract consists of 24 battery-diesel hybrid shunting locomotives, as well as spare parts, tools and technical services.
These narrow-gauge shunting locomotives have been specifically designed for use in KiwiRail’s shunting areas. They will have a centre cab and a maximum axle load of 16 tonnes.
With a built-in battery module, the locomotives will mostly run with zero tailpipe emissions. They will operate within the boundaries of the shunting yard via a remote control system from outside the driver’s cab.
“Stadler is a global leader in environmentally friendly drive technologies and offers a wide range of solutions for our customers. We are very proud that KiwiRail has once again chosen Stadler to renew its locomotive fleet and look forward to supporting KiwiRail on its path to zero-emission rail operations.”
