ČD Cargo has officially presented the twentieth Traxx Universal multi-system locomotive in its fleet during National Railway Day celebrations in Nymburk. The unveiling marks a key stage in the operator’s expansion plans, with 60 units scheduled for delivery under its agreement with Alstom.
The newly presented locomotive, registration number 388.020, was given a special design to symbolise the long-standing partnership between ČD Cargo and Alstom. Deliveries of the locomotives began in 2021 and will continue through 2026–2027.
ETCS upgrade in operation
A major development this year has been the approval of the Traxx Universal locomotives for regular service with an updated software version of the European Train Control System (ETCS). The upgrade is being progressively introduced across the fleet, including the locomotive unveiled at Nymburk.
Tomáš Tóth, Chairman of the Board of Directors at ČD Cargo, said:
“Traxx Universal multi-system locomotives are central to the company’s international expansion. So far, they have covered more than 8 million kilometres and have transported millions of tonnes of goods under the ČD Cargo licence in Germany. Today is a celebration not only of this success, but also of our long-term cooperation with Alstom. Thanks to the support of the Alstom team from Czech Republic, Germany, Switzerland and France in the challenging process of ETCS approval, today we can say that the Traxx Universal multisystem is a fully interoperable locomotive including the active ETCS system.”
Strengthening European freight
Dan Kurucz, Country Managing Director of Alstom Czech Republic, highlighted the importance of the collaboration:
“The slogan ‘ČD Cargo stronger in Europe powered by Alstom’, which stands on the inaugurated Traxx Universal locomotive, fully describes our long-standing cooperation with ČD Cargo. We see ČD Cargo not only as a customer, but above all as a strong and experienced partner. Smooth cross-border operation is extremely important for freight carriers. Thanks to Alstom’s advanced locomotives, Czech carriers ensure smooth and efficient goods transportation across Europe, reinforcing their strength in international logistics.”
Locomotives for nine countries
The Traxx Universal fleet is designed for operation in the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, with extended certification for Slovenia, Croatia and Serbia. This allows deployment in up to nine European countries.
Each locomotive has been designed with an optional “last mile” module, enabling operation on non-electrified sections under independent traction. Capable of speeds up to 160 km/h, the locomotives are built for a 30-year service life, offering greater energy efficiency, higher performance and extended maintenance intervals to improve availability.
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