Akiem Vectron locomotive order covers 80 units

As reported by Railway-News, the Akiem Vectron locomotive order covers a framework agreement. It is with Siemens Mobility. Also, it covers 80 locomotives. This includes a firm order for 50 units and an option for 30 more. In addition, the package includes the first battery-electric Vectron Dual Mode locomotives. First deliveries to Akiem are scheduled for 2029 or 2030.

Akiem Vectron locomotive order and agreement details

Under the deal, Akiem is the launching customer. Still, the agreement does not specify the number of Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery units. The framework agreement also extends an existing relationship between the two companies. As previously covered by Railway Supply, it builds on earlier Vectron Dual Mode orders. Since 2021, Akiem has already ordered 120 Vectron and Vectron Dual Mode locomotives.

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At the same time, the new battery-electric version is intended to cut CO2 emissions. Meanwhile, it is intended to lower operating costs. This applies to routes that are not electrified from end to end. The Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotive uses overhead line power on electrified sections. It can switch to battery operation on non-electrified stretches. Also, this replaces diesel engines with a modular traction battery system.

Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives for rail decarbonisation

“Akiem and Siemens’ teams shared a common vision that Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery will meet the vast majority of our customer needs when operating on non-electrified lines, significantly reducing costs of operations against existing market solutions, while reducing CO2 emission and noise,” said Fabien Rochefort, CEO of Akiem.

“With the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery, we are taking a major development step based on the proven Vectron platform, adding a new fully electric member to the Vectron family,” said Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock, Siemens Mobility. “For customers, this means greater operational flexibility on routes where electrification is not continuous, while supporting the transition to more sustainable rail operations.”

The locomotive is specified for speeds of up to 160 km/h. It has a maximum tractive effort of 300 kN. It has an approximate weight of 90 tonnes. Separately, it provides 480 kVA of train supply power. According to Siemens Mobility, the design is planned with flexible battery configurations of up to more than 2 MWh. It is intended to deliver up to 2,400 kW to the wheels. This applies in both battery mode and under AC overhead line power.

Alternative traction portfolio and battery-electric locomotives

For example, Siemens Mobility said it is continuing to broaden this portfolio. This includes regional trains powered by batteries and hydrogen.

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