The regional operator of Catalonia, FGC, has begun using the first two six-axle SALi Dual machines for transporting potassium from mines in Suria and cars from the SEAT factory in Martorell to the Port of Barcelona, according to Railway Supply magazine, citing Stadler.

Hybrid narrow-gauge locomotives Stadler

Their power in electric mode from the 1.5 kV DC overhead line is 2 MW, and from the diesel engine is 950 kW.

The SALi Dual locomotive was initially designed for the American market and is intended for hauling freight trains weighing up to 1.4 thousand tons.

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Its maximum speed is 80 km/h, and the tractive effort at the start is 395 kN. Stadler notes that the machine consists of components that are 95% recyclable.

The operator expects that compared to the fleet from the 1990s, diesel fuel costs will decrease by 57-66%, and CO2 emissions will decrease by 66%.

A contract worth €36.3 million for the supply of five locomotives was signed in January 2020. The other three machines are currently undergoing testing.

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