Newag starts Griffin E4MSUa locomotive approval process in Germany

Griffin E4MSUa locomotive approval process is now underway in Germany, with Polish manufacturer Newag formally starting the approval steps for the Griffin E4MSUa-002, as reported by RailwayPro.

Approval would allow the multi-system electric locomotive to operate on railway networks in Germany and Austria, which Newag describes as a new stage in the vehicle’s development.

Testing plan for the Griffin E4MSUa locomotive approval process

Meanwhile, the Griffin E4MSUa-002 is undergoing tests on the vehicle’s electrical influence on the infrastructure in Buchs, Switzerland. Once that work is completed, the test programme is scheduled to move on to Germany.

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Separately, to optimize the testing schedule, Newag has also put a second Griffin locomotive into parallel work. At the same time, the unit designated Griffin E4MSUa-015 is undergoing electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing in Velim, Czech Republic, to verify compliance with requirements applicable on the German market and to prepare the vehicle for the next stage of testing and authorisation for operation.

EMC testing in Buchs and Velim, plus ERA application timing

Newag says tests carried out in the Czech Republic and Slovakia have been completed with positive results. With the certification process currently underway, the company states this will allow, in the second quarter of this year, the submission of an application to the European Union Agency for Railways vehicle authorisations process to obtain authorisation for operation in those countries.

PKP Intercity contract scope and multi-system capabilities

The approval procedure for the Griffin E4MSUa locomotive is being carried out in accordance with the provisions of the contract between Newag and PKP Intercity, a programme previously covered by Railway Supply. Under that agreement, the Griffin multi-system locomotives produced are intended to operate in six countries: Poland, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary.

Newag says the new locomotives will be able to run on electrified lines using 3 kV DC, 15 kV AC and 25 kV AC power supply systems, enabling operation on Polish routes as well as international services. All locomotives are to be equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2, which significantly contributes to increasing railway safety standards, in line with a European Commission overview of ETCS levels and modes.

In addition, Newag notes that during dynamic tests in October 2023, the Griffin E4MSUa-001 reached 240 km/h on a test line that supports the approval procedure for the Griffin E4MSUa locomotive, where locomotives operate at speeds of 200 km/h.

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