Swiss operator SBB Cargo and manufacturer Stadler have unveiled a new mainline locomotive designed for freight transport, which promises to reduce energy consumption, infrastructure wear and tear, and operating costs.
The new EURO DuFour locomotive will be used by SBB Cargo Schweiz and is presented in the classic SBB red color, symbolizing the strengthening of rail freight transport within the group.
In September 2024, SBB Cargo Schweiz ordered an initial batch of 36 EURO DuFour locomotives from Stadler, with options for an additional 93 vehicles. The new locomotive is designed to become, in the long term, the sole mainline locomotive in the SBB Cargo Schweiz fleet. Its design incorporates visual elements from the current SBB rolling stock fleet, including the black window band and the distinctive emblem reminiscent of the famous Re 460 locomotive used in passenger transport.
“The locomotive is equipped with state-of-the-art technology: it saves energy while being highly efficient and ready for future innovations. This acquisition represents an important step toward providing freight transport services tailored to the demands of the future,” said Alexander Muhm, Head of the SBB Freight Transport Division.
Technology for Cost Reduction
The new locomotive brings three important technical advantages to rail freight transport in Switzerland.
First, the vehicle reduces infrastructure wear. Thanks to a modern bogie with an integrated guidance system, the locomotive is adapted to the Swiss network, which is characterized by numerous curves, and reduces rail wear by approximately 20% compared to other freight locomotives on the market.
Second, energy consumption is approximately 15% lower than that of SBB Cargo’s current rolling stock fleet, thanks to a modern electric traction system and an innovative parking concept.
Third, 22 of the 36 locomotives ordered will be additionally equipped with battery modules for “last mile” operations. These locomotives will also be able to operate on non-catenary lines, allowing for the pickup and delivery of freight directly to the customer without the need for shunting locomotives. This eliminates additional operations and optimizes the entire logistics process.
In Switzerland, the locomotives will be designated Re 494, and Rea 494 for the battery-equipped versions. The vehicles will be built at the Stadler factory in Valencia. In the second half of 2026, testing will begin at the Velim Test Centre, and in 2027 the locomotives will arrive in Switzerland for certification and operational testing. The first units will enter service at the end of 2027, and delivery of the entire first batch of 36 locomotives will be completed by March 2029.
Standardized rolling stock fleet by 2040
The investment is part of SBB’s strategy to transform freight transport into a profitable business by 2033. The company plans to completely renew and standardize its fleet by 2040, with the new locomotive set to become the primary traction vehicle for freight transport.
By standardizing locomotives and railcars, as well as reducing maintenance costs for the new vehicles, SBB estimates that it will cut operating costs for its freight rolling stock by approximately 60%, strengthening the long-term competitiveness of rail freight transport.
Share on:
