Stadler’s EURO9000 locomotive has received type approval to operate in the Netherlands and Belgium.
This 6-axle hybrid locomotive has been designed for use on international routes in Europe, adapting to specific requirements in each nation.
It has been previously authorised for use in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and is also expected to gain an operating licence for Italy in 2024.
This latest achievement confirms that the locomotive meets the technical specifications for interoperability (TSI) in the Netherlands and Belgium. For operation, it will be equipped with various country packages including conventional automatic train protection systems and European Train Control System (ETCS) to ensure smooth cross-border operations.
With a power output of 9 MW, the EURO9000 is currently the most powerful locomotive on the European market. This allows it to operate on electrified routes with both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC).
Furthermore, its modular design enables up to three different drive systems (electric, diesel and/or battery drive) to be installed together, allowing the vehicle to run on electrified and non-electrified sections of track. The diesel motors also provide additional power when it is travelling under a 3-kV DC overhead contact line.
Notably, the EURO9000 can travel at high speeds on primary European corridors with mixed traffic. Its high power also allows longer, heavier trains to be pulled by a single locomotive.
“The challenges associated with the interoperability of European rail networks and the European Union’s requirements to shift more freight transport to rail motivated us at Stadler to develop one of our most innovative products – the EURO9000. This underlines our commitment and our pioneering role in shaping the future of rail freight transport.”
Leasing company, European Loc Pool (ELP) was the first customer to place an order for Stadler’s EURO9000 locomotives. To date, it has ordered 30 locomotives, 7 of which have already been delivered and are in operation.
Alpha Trains also recently ordered 12 EURO9000 locomotives for delivery in 2025.
These orders follow the successful testing of two prototype locomotives in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands and Belgium over the past two years.
