The first of Northrail’s new DE 18 locomotives, built by Vossloh Rolling Stock, has arrived in Sweden for dynamic testing as part of the approval process for operation in Sweden and later Norway. The unit, equipped with state-of-the-art Stage V engine technology, arrived on 12 April 2025 and signals the beginning of Northrail’s broader entry into the Swedish market.
Northrail has ordered ten DE 18 locomotives from Vossloh Rolling Stock, with an option for ten more. Designed for heavy shunting and mainline freight service, the DE 18 is a powerful diesel-electric locomotive with a central cab, built to meet the future demands of freight transport. It delivers high performance while offering fuel efficiency and significantly reduced emissions. The locomotive is certified to run on renewable HVO fuel, cutting CO₂ emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional diesel models.
“We see clear demand in Sweden for powerful, modern and low-emission locomotives,” said Michael Trentzsch, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Commercial Officer at Northrail AG. “With the DE 18, we can offer a future-proof solution that combines performance, flexibility and sustainability.”
The newly delivered locomotive is being adapted for the Swedish market with the installation of the European Train Control System (ETCS) and Sweden’s local ATC-2 train protection system. Initial dynamic tests are scheduled for 2025, with first J5 approval expected in early 2026.
“We are pleased to support our long-standing customer Northrail and the Scandinavian rail industry with sustainable and efficient solutions. That’s why we are equipping the DE 18 with an environmentally friendly performance package that ensures strong traction and reliable handling,” Henrik M. Egeter, CEO of Vossloh Rolling Stock, commented.
Northrail views Sweden as a long-term growth market. The DE 18 is designed for both Swedish and Norwegian operations and is suited for shunting duties as well as mainline freight, making it one of the most powerful centre-cab locomotives in Europe.
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