BLS Cargo is purchasing 10 new Siemens "Vectron" (DACHINLBE) multi-system locomotives for use in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands and Belgium. The locomotives also feature the newly developed XLoad equipment package.
XLoad is a combination of features that improve the traction capability and efficiency of the locomotives. This allows heavier trains to be run in single traction, eliminating the need for additional booster or push locomotives. XLoad is a new development from Siemens Mobility and has been available since 2022.
BLS Cargo tested the new function in detail last year and was convinced of its usefulness. "With the new locomotives, we can run heavier trains than before on the gradients in Alpine transit. This will make us more efficient and we will also have more locomotives available in operation," says Dirk Stahl, CEO of BLS Cargo.
For years, BLS Cargo has relied on end-to-end traction concepts with multi-system locomotives, in which cross-border products are produced end-to-end to ensure maximum efficiency and quality for customers. The procurement of the 10 locomotives further supports this strategy. In addition, there will be a need for reinvestment in existing older locomotives in the coming years as well as additional demand for the targeted growth.
The new locomotives will be delivered in 2026. The Vectron fleet of BLS Cargo will thus grow to a total of 50 vehicles. The company had already ordered a total of 40 locomotives from Siemens Mobility in 2015 and 2020.
Additional information:
Michael Ruefer
michael.ruefer@bls.ch.
