Stadler has announced that its EURODUAL locomotive has been officially approved for operation in Slovenia, Croatia and Serbia.
The announcement marks a critical moment for international rail freight connectivity across the Pan-European Corridor X, which links Central Europe with the Balkan region towards Turkey.
Designed as a six-axle bi-mode locomotive; the EURODUAL combines both electric and diesel traction systems into one unified platform, allowing for operation across electrified and non-electrified networks. The unit offers 6.2MW of electric power and comes equipped with a 2.8MW diesel engine, rendering it well suited to regions with mixed infrastructure, such as the Balkan region where rail electrification covers between 40% and 50 %.
Development of the EURODUAL is expected to contribute to the further development of sustainable rail freight transport, with higher hauling capacities helping to optimise resource use whilst advanced propulsion technology, including a Stage V-compliant diesel engine and compatibility with HVO fuels, aims to reduce local emissions.
Iñigo Parra, CEO of Stadler Valencia, said:The EURODUAL is already successfully operating in a wide range of European markets, including Germany, Austria, France, Belgium, Norway, Sweden and Turkey. Its proven performance confirms its suitability for demanding freight operations.
The new approvals enable additional cross-border freight services and support more efficient rail connections in Southeast Europe.
