Prepared for the Future
New Locomotive Technology by Stadler
The new universal Bo’Bo’ locomotive EURO DuFour. Photo: Stadler Rail
Following on from the six-axle EURODUAL and EURO9000 models, which are primarily used in heavy freight transport, Stadler is launching the EURO DuFour in 2025 – a four-axle universal locomotive platform. Its technical features are designed to maximise the locomotive’s range of use and network accessibility whilst minimising operating costs.
With a continuous power output of 7 MW in electric mode and a starting tractive force of up to 350 kN, the EURO DuFour ranks among the most powerful four-axle locomotives of its class. It is designed for top speeds of 160 or 200 km/h so that it is equally suitable for use in freight, regional or Intercity services. In addition to the standard variants, the EURO DuFour can even be configured for 230 km/h. For passenger services, it is equipped with head-end power, ep-EBO brakes and various door control systems for European passenger coaches.
The axle-by-axle traction control with two three-stage traction converters generates an almost perfectly sinusoidal current. This reduces losses in the traction motors and in the transformer, thereby saving energy. The platform is designed as a multisystem AC/DC locomotive, including four multi-functional spaces that are kept free in the electric version while they can be used to install different configurations of traction batteries, diesel engines, H2 fuel-cells for the “last mile” or even ballast for improving adhesion (up to 90t).
In order to minimise track-guiding forces and wheel-rail wear, the bogies are equipped with a passive steering system derived from the Swiss Re 460 locomotive, which ensures stability at high speeds and ease of maintenance. In combination with the lightweight construction (20 t axle load), this enables access to Class C lines and tight track curves in Switzerland.
The locomotive control system integrates various functions that save operating time and energy. The locomotive is equipped with ETCS BL4 and conventional Class B systems for cross-border use in the DACH region (Germany, Austria and Switzerland) and is designed for use in other countries. It is also prepared for the FRMCS train radio system and the European Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC).
The launch customer, SBB Cargo, has ordered up to 129 EURO DuFour locomotives in electric versions and variants with traction batteries, which are to gradually replace the existing freight locomotive fleet.
Stadler Rail AG
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