Vectron, a new locomotive generation that has been developed for the widest possible range of traction tasks. These locomotives can be used for both national and cross-border passenger and freight traffic and are built for a maximum speed of either 160 km/h or 200 km/h. The various performance classes and voltage systems – with either alternating current (AC), direct current (DC) or multi-system type – enable the locomotive to be configured easily to individual requirements.
Country-specific automatic control systems can simply be exchanged or added. Another special feature is the front end that is designed as an internal deformation zone. This can be readily disconnected from the rest of body, thus ensuring easy replacement in the event of an accident. The components in the machine compartment are arranged to make the best possible use of space. The completely modular concept is also suitable for operators who require only small numbers of vehicles.
Siemens offers a number of Vectron versions for a range of transportation tasks. The Vectron not only covers the high performance class up to 6400 kW but also provides solutions in the medium performance class up to 5200 kW for regional passenger traffic and lighter freight trains. A diesel-electric version is planned for the medium term. The locomotive body is designed to withstand stresses with a maximum static tensile force of 1,500 kN and a maximum static compressive force of 2,000 kN.
The Vectron’s train protection concept is exceptionally versatile. The locomotive is preconfigured for operation in almost all European countries. There are three fixed rack positions in the machine compartment for the train protection cabinets. The cabinets themselves have a modular design for easy conversion and retrofitting. The underfloor area and the bogie have also been prepared for the mounting of antennas and speed encoders.
The concept of predefined installation locations has also proven itself for the driver’s desk because subsequent retrofitting does not require any makeshift structures.
The Vectron has major advantages when it comes to safety. Firstly, it has a defined deformation zone in the front end, which can be disconnected from the body. Secondly, the straight, central aisle provides a quick escape route.
Rail transportation in Europe is changing at an ever faster rate. The logistics are becoming more and more complex; goods have to be moved more quickly and over greater distances. The cross-border traffic in Central Europe and on the Southeast Corridor is already heavy and will continue to increase. Modern locomotives have to be capable of serving these main routes and future growth regions, which means they have to be interoperable and pre-equipped to operate there.
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