Siemens Mobility has signed a new framework agreement with Akiem, a leading provider of locomotive and passenger train leasing and maintenance, for the purchase of 80 Vectron locomotives, with a firm order of 50.
The firm order includes the launch of the new Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives, as well as an option for 30 additional units.
The new locomotive’s design is based on the existing Vectron Dual Mode platform
© Siemens Mobility
With the new locomotive, Siemens Mobility aims to further develop its Vectron Dual Mode platform, expanding the Vectron line with a battery-based solution. The new locomotives are capable of operating both under overhead line power and along non-electrified route sections via the use of traction batteries.
The first units are scheduled for delivery from 2029/2030, which will then subsequently allow Akiem, a launch customer, to offer them for lease to the wider market.
Prior to this latest order; Akiem had already placed several with Siemens Mobility for a total of 120 Vectron and Vectron Dual Mode locomotives since 2021.
Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock, Siemens Mobility, said:
Akiem’s decision is a strong vote of confidence in our technology, and we greatly value that trust. 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.
For customers, this means greater operational flexibility on routes where electrification is not continuous, while supporting the transition to more sustainable rail operations.
Siemens Mobility’s new Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery has been built on the Vectron Dual Mode platform, and is designed for a similar range of operations. In place of a diesel engine, the locomotive utilises a modular traction battery system, which enables it to run both under overhead lines and on routes without continuous electrification.
Flexible battery configurations of up to more than 2 MWh will allow for the delivery of up to 2,400kW to the wheels in both battery mode and when operating under AC overhead line power. The locomotive has been designed for speeds of up to 160km/h, a maximum tractive effort of 300kN, a weight of approximately 90 tonnes, and comes with a train supply power of 480kVA.