Major Investment in Sustainable Rail Freight
Luxembourg-based rolling stock lessor Nexrail has announced a significant order with manufacturer Stadler for up to 200 EURO9000 panto-battery hybrid locomotives. This strategic acquisition aims to advance sustainable, zero-emission freight transport across European rail networks. The first deliveries of these innovative locomotives are expected to commence in 2029, with Hamburger Rail Service GmbH & Co. KG (HRS) identified as the launching customer.
Advanced Hybrid Technology for Cross-Border Operations
The EURO9000 locomotives are designed to combine powerful electric and battery capabilities, offering a robust solution for modern freight demands. Each unit features up to 9 MW of pantograph power and 1.2 MW of high-performance battery power. This configuration is intended to make them the first mainline corridor locomotives capable of entirely zero-emission transport from terminal to terminal. The locomotives are built on Stadler Valencia's proven six-axle Co'Co' platform and incorporate multi-system architecture, ensuring seamless cross-border operation across several European countries, including:
- Germany
- Austria
- Belgium
- The Netherlands
- Switzerland
- Italy
The integrated smart battery module provides additional benefits such as regenerative braking, peak shaving, and energy trading, contributing to operational efficiency and cost savings.
Driving Towards a Zero-Emission Future
The order underscores a commitment to decarbonizing rail freight. Luuk von Meijenfeldt, CEO of Nexrail, stated, 'Nexrail is excited to lead the European locomotive market toward a zero-emission future. The Stadler EURO9000 is an important step forward in that transition because it eliminates the need for diesel traction and offers freight operators completely new benefits of having battery storage on board.' Similarly, Iñigo Parra, CEO of Stadler Valencia, remarked, 'This order highlights our joint commitment to sustainable innovation in rail freight. By combining high-power electric performance with emission-free battery operation, the EURO9000 sets a new benchmark for flexible, green traction solutions across Europe.'
Operational Advantages and Economic Benefits
The EURO9000's high tractive effort and power capabilities allow for single-traction operation even on challenging terrains, such as trans-alpine corridors, thereby reducing the need for additional bank locomotives. Furthermore, the battery can provide a performance boost on weaker DC networks, enabling heavier loads and optimized train paths. Nexrail, established in 2021 and backed by InfraVia Capital Partners, aims to become a leading European platform for hybrid and dual-mode traction, focusing on innovative and sustainable rolling stock solutions.
5 Comments
Ongania
Stadler and Nexrail leading the way! High-power hybrid tech is the future.
Fuerza
Zero-emission freight across borders? Sign me up! A huge step forward.
Manolo Noriega
While the hybrid technology promises significant environmental benefits, the long-term maintenance costs and potential for battery degradation will be crucial factors to monitor.
Fuerza
It's great to see a commitment to zero-emission rail freight, but the 2029 delivery date feels a bit far off given the urgency of climate goals.
Manolo Noriega
Decarbonizing rail freight is essential, and these new locomotives offer impressive capabilities. However, a full transition will require broader policy support and incentives for operators to adopt such expensive new fleets.