Stadler Ships First Narrow-Gauge Diesel Locomotives to New Zealand: Key Details of the New Delivery for KiwiRail
03.09.2024
Stadler has successfully dispatched the first batch of narrow-gauge diesel locomotives to New Zealand, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
In August, two locomotives were loaded onto a ship at a Spanish port and set sail for New Zealand.
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They are expected to arrive at the port of Lyttelton in mid-October, after which they will be handed over to the New Zealand carrier KiwiRail for further operation.
These locomotives belong to the six-axle DM class and are equipped with dual cabs, allowing for efficient bi-directional operation.
The locomotives are designed to operate on narrow-gauge tracks with a width of 1,067 mm, which is standard for New Zealand railways.
The maximum speed they can reach is 100 km/h, making them versatile for various operating conditions.
The powertrain is based on engines from the American company Caterpillar, with a power output of 3 MW, meeting strict Stage V environmental standards. These engines provide high performance while minimizing environmental impact.
Special attention has been given to energy efficiency. To save fuel, the locomotives are equipped with a “start-stop” system that automatically shuts down the engine during long stops and restarts it as needed.
Additionally, the locomotives are integrated with a monitoring and predictive analytics system that tracks the condition of all components, enabling timely maintenance, reducing the likelihood of malfunctions, and extending equipment lifespan.
The maximum tractive force of the locomotive when starting is 415 kN, making them powerful and efficient even in challenging terrains.
The delivery of these locomotives is part of a contract signed between Stadler and KiwiRail in 2021, which includes the supply of 57 locomotives.
Earlier this year, in February, the contract was expanded: KiwiRail ordered an additional 9 mainline diesel locomotives and 24 hybrid shunting locomotives.
This underscores the successful collaboration between the companies and KiwiRail’s commitment to renewing and modernizing its fleet of railway equipment.
The delivery of new locomotives from Stadler will enable KiwiRail to significantly enhance the efficiency and reliability of rail transport in New Zealand, providing a modern and environmentally friendly transportation solution for the country.
Photo: KiwiRail
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