Railpool leasing was the launching customer of the Traxx AC3 locomotive platform, which was first presented in May 2011. Initially, Railpool ordered five AC3 units with additional Last-Mile Diesel feature. This order was part of a framework agreement for the delivery of 36 Traxx locomotives signed in December 2010. Over time, the number of 187s in the fleet of Railpool grew to 30 locomotives.
Locomotive 187 004 was the first Traxx AC3 locomotive in Railpool colors. it left the Bombardier factory in Kassel in November 2013.
Railpool Traxx AC3 LM: news
2017
2017-05-28
[DE] The orange Flex Panel: Railpool > Locon 187 309
update 2017|05|28
[DE] The orange Flex Panel: Railpool > Locon 187 309
Railpool > Locon 187 309 with its new Flex Panel at Hamburg, Unterelbe on 27.05.2017. Photo: Nico DanielRailpool Traxx AC3 LM
2017-04-14
[DE] NIAG and HGB tests TRAXX AC's Last Mile functionality [updated]
update 2017|04|14
[DE] NIAG and HGB tests TRAXX AC's Last Mile functionality [updated]
Currently, NIAG and Hessische Güterbahn (HGB) both have a Railpool TRAXX Ac3 locomotive with Last Mile equipment in their fleet. The German operators want to see if such electric locomotive with shunting diesel module brings operational advantages in every service. NIAG currently operates the designated 187 301, HGB the 302. - NE/Rail Business - Photos: Niklas Eimers / Lothar Weber
Update: Just added an image taken in Mainz showing Railpool > HGB 187 302. Photo: Lucas Hirsch
[DE] Transport of Railpool 186 445 and 187 315 to Velim
update 2017|03|06
[DE] Transport of Railpool 186 445 and 187 315 to Velim
Over the weekend, RailAdventure took three TRAXX locomotive to the south-east of Germany: brand new Railpool 186 445, 187 315 and test locomotive Macquarie Rail 186 236. The first two machines continued their journey to Velim, 186 236 was taken towards Austria.
The batch of 17 TRAXX AC3 locomotives for Germany, Austria, Hungary and Romania (187 300-316) for Railpool is almost complete. The only two machines we have not seen yet, are the 187 300 and 314.
Today, Railpool 187 400 and 187 401 (both REV 10.02.2017) were released from the Bombardier Kassel factory and taken to Rostock harbor, behind the also new 186 297. From there, both 187s will make a boat trip to Sweden. During the next months, Bombardier will outshop three more Railpool TRAXX AC3 locomotives with Last Mile module for services in Scandinavia: 187 402, 403 and 404. Photo: Christian Klotz
Various images of Railpool's 187 316-5 being in Hungary. The machine was seen in Sopron, Komárom and in Győrszentiván together with 1216 920. Photos: Nortbert Tilai / Csaba Bereczki
[CH] A relief! Operators can continue operation with Bombardier TRAXX locomotives in the Gotthard Base Tunnel
update 2016|11|28
[CH] A relief! Operators can continue operation with Bombardier TRAXX locomotives in the Gotthard Base Tunnel
On 08.09.2016, the Swiss 'Bundesamt für Verkehr' (BAV) announced that it would no longer allow Bombardier TRAXX locomotives with ETCS Level 2 to run on the Gotthard-route, including the Gotthard base tunnel. This would mean that TRAXX locomotives of the type 486 (BLS Cargo), BR 186 (Railpool), Re 487 (SRT) and BR 187 (Railpool) would be banned from one of the most important transalp freight routes in Switzerland as of this December, as BAV only granted operation with ETCS level 2 for these types under a limited-term operating license valid until November 2016.
BAV made its decision based on a 'accumulation of disturbances' causing forced braking by locomotives resulting in operational interruptions and delays. BAV offered its help to Bombardier to solve the issues so railfreight operation with these machines could continue in December, which was gladly accepted. Today Bombardier officially announced that a solution has been found. This must be a great relief to all companies and operators involved:
Bombardier announced today that its TRAXX locomotives, upgraded with the latest automatic train protection software (Railcolor: the latest version of EBI Cab 2000), have been approved for operation on Switzerland's Gotthard Base Tunnel. This authorization milestone was achieved in close cooperation between the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT), SBB Infra, BLS Cargo and Bombardier.
"We thank the FOT, SBB Infra and BLS Cargo for the constructive teamwork that will enable our TRAXX locomotives to operate reliably and efficiently in the Gotthard Base Tunnel", said Albert Bastius, Head of Product Line Locomotives, Bombardier Transportation, "We are now continuing to see that the implementation of our latest software progresses well on the many locomotives in operation, so that our customers benefit from this updated version."
(..) The new software version will enable the TRAXX MS and AC locomotives (Re 486, BR 186, Re 487, BR 187) to run on all sections of the Gotthard Tunnel's track, including those using the advanced European Train Control System (ETCS) in Level 2 operation.
Locomotives that are not yet retrofitted can still run on all other lines in Switzerland, including those equipped with ETCS. In double traction operation as the non-leading locomotive, the locomotives can be operational even on the Gotthard Axis.
Update: A BLS Cargo freight train under ETCS level 2 on the Gotthard line on 01.12.2016:
Finally, new Railpool 187s are being put into revenue earning service. During the past weeks we saw 187 304, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310 and 312 pulling their first freight trains. Like many other electrics, some of them were made available this weekend to operators of charter trains, a common thing in Germany. The image above and below show the 187 308 and 312 with passenger trains. (Torsten Klose / Andreas Kriegisch / Martin Morkowsky / Tobias Brüggemann)
BTW: 187 009 (ex-Locon) and 187 301, 302, 305 (ex-Lokomotion) are back at Kassel. 187 316 and 400 that were in Zurich are also on their way home. (Christian Klotz / Theo Stolz)
The Westfälische Landes-Eisenbahn (WLE) is now operating unit no. 187 307. The brand new machine is hired from Railpool as a replacement locomotive for WLE's own TRAXX AC3 no.82, which was recalled by Bombardier for an update. Christian Klotz made pictures of both machines this week.
[DE] 'Lokzug de luxe' with Vectron, TRAXX AC3 and TRAXX MS
update 2016|10|27
[DE] 'Lokzug de luxe' with Vectron, TRAXX AC3 and TRAXX MS
Yesterday, a 'Lokzug' (a train with only locomotives) was seen around Munich, with several interesting new locomotives, that have not been delivered to a customer yet: Alpha Trains 186 202 + future ELL 193 256 + future Railpool 187 316 + Alpha Trains 186 242 + future DB Cargo 187 103 with Bombardier flex panels. Thanks to Michael Raucheisen.
[DE] Railpool 187 310, 311 and NS E 186 040 on maiden run
update 2016|09|29
[DE] Railpool 187 310, 311 and NS E 186 040 on maiden run
Busy times in Kassel. Again three new machines completed their maiden run on 28. and 29.09.2016. Two silver painted machines for Railpool: 187 310 and 311. Also NS E 186 040 made its obligatory round. Thanks Christian Klotz.
On 24.09.2016, Railpool's future 187 316 was seen in Berlin-Schönefeld and photographed by Dr. Günther Barths. This locomotive belongs to batch 187 300-316, planned for services in Germany, Austria, Hungary and Romania.
[SE/NO] This is 187 400, the first TRAXX Ac3 locomotive for Norway and Sweden
update 2016|09|22
[SE/NO] This is 187 400, the first TRAXX Ac3 locomotive for Norway and Sweden
This morning we had the honor to inspect the first TRAXX AC3 locomotive for services in Norway and Sweden. The pictures show Railpool no. 187 400 equipped for the two countries mentioned and having a complete Last Mile shunting module. (SW/HZ)
Five such machines were ordered by Railpool in November 2015.
WLC is currently operating Railpool 187 304. The picture shows the machine with a diesel loco at Enns on 20.07.2016. (Johannes Klektau)
Railpool Traxx AC3 LM
2016-06-29
[HR] Railpool 187 303 in Croatia
update 2016|06|29
[HR] Railpool 187 303 in Croatia
Again, a TRAXX AC3 locomotive is visiting Croatia. This time the future Railpool 187 303 was photographed in Okucani. from there it is used for ETCS trial runs to Novska. - Toma Bacic / Zoran Crnko
[AT] Railpool 187 301 and 302 in service of Lokomotion
update 2016|05|24
[AT] Railpool 187 301 and 302 in service of Lokomotion
Since 18.05.2016, the new Railpool 187 301-7 and 187 302-5 are hauling trains for Lokomotion. Both machines are used only in Austria, as they are not officially approved for the other countries they are built for (Germany, Hungary and Romania).
The delivery of Railpool 187 300-316 is a very slow process. 14 months ago we could already see the first units under construction in Kassel, still no machines are being seen in revenue service. However things seem to be moving (literally) with 187 301 showing up today in Austria, under the responsibility of WLB.
We have also seen 187 302 in Linz recently, and 187 304 left Kassel in the third week of April and was then seen in Passau and Gramatneusiedl.
Today, the new Railpool 187 304-1 was seen in Passau (DE). It is on its way to Austria. The locomotive is equipped for services in Germany, Austria, Hungary and Romania. it is the first of a new batch of 17 TRAXX AC3 locomotives for Railpool, to be numbered 187 300-316.
[BG/HR] TRAXX AC3 Last Mile Locomotive officially approved for Bulgaria and Croatia
update 2016|03|21
[BG/HR] TRAXX AC3 Last Mile Locomotive officially approved for Bulgaria and Croatia
Bombardier reports: Another milestone for the TRAXX AC3 Last Mile Locomotive: On March 4 it has received the type approval in Croatia, on January 27 in Bulgaria. This means the TRAXX AC3 Last Mile locomotive is now approved in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, Croatia and Bulgaria.
187 001-003 - test bed locomotivesRailpool Traxx AC3 LM
2016-03-03
[EU] GIC from Singapore takes 49% share in Railpool
update 2016|03|03
[EU] GIC from Singapore takes 49% share in Railpool
Since May 2014, Oaktree Capital was the 100% owner of Railpool. It acquired the lease company from its founders: KfW IPEX-Bank GmbH and HSH Nordbank AG.
Now it announces that Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC has taken a 49% stake in Railpool. This deal provides more financial security for the ongoing fleet expansion of Railpool.
[DE] First time: TRAXX AC3 in service in Germany [updatedx2]
update 2016|02|10
[DE] First time: TRAXX AC3 in service in Germany [updatedx2]
New in Germany: TRAXX Ac3 locomotives with freight trains, including shunting. The picture above shows WLE 82 (187 010 II) on 28.01.2016 in Lippstadt-Kaldewei (DE). (Markus Tepper)
Also Railpool 187 009-6 is pioneering for the TRAXX AC3 family in Germany. Since 06.02.2016 it is hauling container freight trains for Locon. (Jürgen Steinhoff)
[AT] TRAXX AC3 Last Mile receives official approval for Austria
update 2016|02|02
[AT] TRAXX AC3 Last Mile receives official approval for Austria
Bombardier Transportation announced today that its Bombardier TRAXX AC3 Last Mile Locomotive has been homologated in Austria. This means the TRAXX AC Last Mile locomotive is now approved for operation in the entire DACH region: Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
Christian Diewald, Managing Director Bombardier Transportation Austria, said, “Approval in Austria is another very important milestone for further implementing of TRAXX AC3 Last Mile locomotives in Central Europe, but also in Austria itself. It is the only locomotive which has already proven its strong performance in Last Mile operation during many successful test runs in Austria as well as in commercial operation in Switzerland – now it is ready for revenue service in Austria.”
Hello 187 009, you look different. Indeed, this locomotive was previously used for test and promotion by Bombardier. It was painted in the red livery of DB Schenker, however without the DB logos. Now it is just another member of the Railpool fleet. (Christian Klotz)
[EU] TRAXX AC3 Last Mile Locomotive receives official approval for operation in Germany
update 2015|12|22
[EU] TRAXX AC3 Last Mile Locomotive receives official approval for operation in Germany
Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation announced today that its BOMBARDIER TRAXX AC3 Last Mile Locomotive has been homologated in Germany. The locomotive received official approval for operation from the German Railway Authority Eisenbahn-Bundesamt (EBA) on 17.12.2015.
Ulrich Jochem, Head of Locomotives, Bombardier Transportation, said, "Approval by the German Railway Authority is a very important milestone for further implementing the TRAXX AC3 Last Mile locomotive in Central Europe. The TRAXX AC3 Last Mile locomotive will make it possible to utilize entirely new logistics concepts."
The TRAXX locomotive's Last Mile features an innovative support diesel engine with an accompanying traction battery and a remote control for shunting. Together, these systems enable this electric locomotive to efficiently bridge sections of non-electrified track. This ability is put to great use in places like ports, terminals, depots or factories where a supporting diesel shunting locomotive is often called in to help trains cross the final, non-electrified, track sections known as the "last mile". Efficiently, economically (with one driver only) and environmentally friendly, the TRAXX AC3 Last Mile locomotives use their support diesel engines only when necessary, and are entirely emission-free when operating in traction battery mode while providing full traction performance also in last mile mode. The TRAXX AC3 Last Mile locomotive is also the first locomotive with the Last Mile functionality to receive homologation in Germany.
Bombardier has already received over 240 orders for different TRAXX AC3 locomotive variants and the innovative locomotive has also won various certifications in accordance with the applicable TSI (technical specifications for interoperability).
[HR] TRAXX AC Last Mile Locomotive nearing approval in Croatia
update 2015|12|18
[HR] TRAXX AC Last Mile Locomotive nearing approval in Croatia
A Bombardier TRAXX AC3 Last Mile Locomotive from the pool of the leasing company Railpool travelled in December for the first time in Croatia. The aim: approval during the first quarter of 2016. In cooperation with the approval authorities locomotive no. 187 001 was first fully tested statically. The subsequent dynamic test focused on brake distance measurements, amongst others in different brake modes. A test journey on December 14th took place between Zagreb and Slavonski Brod. Ten kilometers of this stretch, the locomotive accomplished in Last Mile mode; the transition from electrical operation to last mile mode and back took place whilst traveling. The data obtained during the test are now sent to the approval authorities who will analyze them. The data represent necessary information in relation to the approval process. (Bombardier)
187 001-003 - test bed locomotivesRailpool Traxx AC3 LM
2015-11-24
[CH] Railpool>BLS Cargo 187 008 with DVA flex panel
update 2015|11|24
[CH] Railpool>BLS Cargo 187 008 with DVA flex panel
Our first image of Railpool>BLS Cargo 187 008 with DVA Flex Panel, featured in this marvellous scene. The machine mentioned pilotes train TEC 43003 and Railpool 186 108 in the Wattinger curve near Wassen. Thank you Georg Trüb.
As long as Railpool 186 181 is out of service for its R1 overhaul, 186 424 will be pulling Benelux trains from Amsterdam to Brussels and back. The image shows the locomotive and such a train at Zevenbergen on 13.11.2015. (Henk de Jager).
- Call of a frame contract from 2014 (35+30 optional)
- Order value 75 million euro ($82 million US)
- 5x Traxx AC3 Last Mile SE/NO, delivery start third quarter 2016
- 8x Traxx MS DE/AT/CH/IT/BE/NL (new package type)
- 5x Traxx MS DE/AT/BE/NL
Of the base contract of 2014, 17 of 35 locomotive have been delivered so far (186 421-437). 186 438 is test locomotive for a new package (DE/AT/PL/NL/CZ/SK/HU). The remaining 17 units are planned as Traxx AC3 locomotive. The first one ready, being 187 300 DE/AT/HU/RO with Last Mile module.
[BG] Tests with Railpool 187 004 in Bulgaria have commenced
update 2015|09|02
[BG] Tests with Railpool 187 004 in Bulgaria have commenced
Traxx AC3 187 004 is currently in Bulgary. This morning the machine started with pulling a 1100-tonne train near Kremikovtsi (Sofia) as part of a series of homologation tests. On the back of the test train is an ex-DSB EA 3000 series locomotive (now DB Schenker class 86 in Bulgaria). (Konstantin Planinski)
Railpool 187 004 arrives in Bulgaria (we think for homologation). On picture the locomotive awaits departure from Ilientsi to Konchar (Poduene). The machine also ran in Last Mile diesel mode in Ilientsi station. (Krassen Panev)
Later it was photographed at the Končar workshops in Sofia. (Konstantin Planinski)
Until now, we only know of Traxx AC3 electrics (on order) to be homologated for Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Hungary and Romania. Bulgary is new.
This video shows Railpool 187 004 in Curtici Romania in diesel mode. Soon, Bombardier will start delivery of a new batch of Traxx Ac3 locomotives to Railpool: 187 300-316. It is planned to have (some of these machines) approved for Romania too.
The Bombardier Traxx AC3 locomotive with Last Mile module (Railpool no. 187 005) has passed another endurance test over the weekend. The locomotive ran over the Bergensbanen, an high altitude route in Norway with corresponding geographical and climatic challenges. This line connects Bergen with Oslo and has track gradients of up to 25 per thousand. The locomotive successfully pulled a 465-meter-long freight train for operator Cargolink. On a slope (its gradient was 21 per thousand) the test train was stopped in order to verify its performance in diesel mode (lowered pantographs). Despite wet rails the locomotive successfully moved its train from standstill.
Generally, the tests proved the locomotive has a significantly better track record regarding adhesion in comparison to existing vehicles. The improved adhesion control is available in both electric and diesel mode.
Furthermore, the locomotive successfully completed the shunting operation tests in Bergen, where the machine had to take parts of the train, loaded with electric cars, to Minde. It pulled its train over a gradient of 20 per thousand in the last mile mode to the local storage place for cars.
Yet again, the Bombardier Traxx AC3 locomotive with Last Mile module has completed a challenging task under real conditions. During the past days, Railpool locomotive no. 187 005 has been tested by operator CargoLink. For this purpose the locomotive was transported from Germany to Norway.
On 01.03.2015, the 005 pulled a 1000t freight train in Last Mile (diesel) mode over a track section with a 1,7‰ gradient. This was done at the Oslo-Alnabru freight station. During the next days, the locomotive completed various shunting operations at the same location.
CargoLink and Bombardier tested the performances of the Last Mile module under real conditions in the Scandinavian country, in order to decide if this type of machine is fit for hauling CargoLink's freigth trains on non-electrified track sections in Bergen and Trondheim. In general, these trains have a gross weight of 800-1000t.
[CH] Railpool 187 004 pulling its own, normal freight train
update 2015|02|28
[CH] Railpool 187 004 pulling its own, normal freight train
'Es lauft'! Would one say in Germany. This the first image we got of a Traxx AC3 of Railpool pulling its own, normal freight train. As we reported, the full approval for Switzerland is now a fact, making this possible. - PDS
Railpool Traxx AC3 LM
2015-02-05
[CH] Bombardier Traxx AC3 Last Mile locomotive officially homologated for Switzerland
update 2015|02|05
[CH] Bombardier Traxx AC3 Last Mile locomotive officially homologated for Switzerland
A milestone for the Bombardier Traxx AC3 Last Mile locomotive: The electric locomotive has received official authorization for unrestricted commercial operation in Switzerland.
The authorization was granted after extensive testing of the eight locomotives ordered by Railpool, three of which were deployed in Switzerland by BLS. Four more will be delivered to Akiem, and an additional Traxx AC3 locomotive with the innovative Last Mile feature was handed over last week to the Swiss company Swiss Rail Traffic (SRT). The locomotive's Last Mile feature, a combination of auxiliary diesel engine and battery, will help SRT bridge a five-kilometre non-electrified line section.
The Last Mile feature enables the locomotive to cover the frequently non-electrified "last mile" in ports, container terminals, saw mills or railway stations under its own power, rendering shunting locomotives and other solutions obsolete. In fact, Last Mile-equipped locomotive are able to run on non-electrified line sections on their own power for up to eight hours – without reducing tractive effort as compared with running under catenary wire. Official Traxx locomotive approval is also expected in Austria and Germany in the immediate future. - Bombardier
187 001-003 - test bed locomotives187 009-010 - test bed locomotivesAkiem Traxx AC3 Last MileRailpool Traxx AC3 LMSwiss Rail Traffic TRAXX AC3
2015-02-03
[NO] CargoLink: we want to test Traxx AC3 in Norway
update 2015|02|03
[NO] CargoLink: we want to test Traxx AC3 in Norway
At jernbane.net a test request is being published. Freight operator Cargolink AS will soon perform trials with a Traxx AC3 locomotive, to be more precise, with locomotive no. 187 005. - MO
Railpool Traxx AC3 LM
It is maybe the first picture for the site that shows both Siemens' and Bombardier's newest locomotives next to each other. mgw 193 845 (Vectron) next to Railpool 187 007 (Bombardier AC3). Quite a difference compared to some years ago, as we come from an era during which you could not set a Siemens from a Bombardier locomotive apart, as they featured almost identical exterior designs. The fact that the German railways in the 90s wanted an homogenous look for all their new locomotives (101, 145+185, 152+189) had quite a long-lasting effect on the design of locomotives developed by the German railway industry.
Nowadays, things are quite the opposite. The manufacturers' decision to address the market's needs by developing a highly standardized, yet flexible platform locomotives, resulted in products with an 'independent' design, independent from the wish-list of a certain customer. Of course, there are still launching customers, that fuel innovation with their (big or small) orders, but design and construction are now, in general, rather based on universally applicable EU railway (market) standards, than on specific needs of an operator. So, now also the big railways operators in Europe are being offered standard designs (the Bombardier AC3 for DB Schenker Rail for example) of which the customization is limited. Only if an operator is willing to pay for a custom design, or its parameters require this, they'll get a custom made exterior. This does not happen a lot. Luckily for this website, there are still the liveries, that get more diverse and colorful every day.
And, lucky us, we now see it from quite a distance, 'ah it is a Siemens', or 'hey, that was a Bombardier locomotive'. Makes life easier. - SW
mgw Service VectronRailpool Traxx AC3 LM
2014-11-17
[CH] Railpool 187 004 in Basel
update 2014|11|17
[CH] Railpool 187 004 in Basel
Portrait of Railpool 187 004 which is currently being used for personnel training at Basel Badischer Bahnhof. - TS
Meanwhile we put the first Traxx AC3 Last Mile visual, that you may have seen already on our poster, online:
As you know, Traxx AC3 LM locomotives no. 187 005 and 007 are undergoing homologation tests in Austria this week. They visit Limberg-Maissau, Kledering (central shunting yard), Linz, Eisenstadt, Tullnerfeld, St. Pölten and Wien West. On 19.11.2014 they will return to Germany from Wien West via Passau. - MO
Railpool Traxx AC3 LM
2014-11-08
[AT] Trials in Austria met 187 005 and 007
update 2014|11|08
[AT] Trials in Austria met 187 005 and 007
While the red 187 009 is touring Europe, Railpool 187 005 and 007 are being used for the trials in Austria. For example, they were seen together today with SLP 95534 (test train with OBB coaches) from Sankt Valentin to Villach. - AK/CB
Railpool Traxx AC3 LM
2014-11-02
[AT] Traxx AC3 arrives in Austria: 187 005, 007 and 009 together running Vienna
update 2014|11|02
[AT] Traxx AC3 arrives in Austria: 187 005, 007 and 009 together running Vienna
Three Traxx AC3 locomotive with Last Mile shunting module have entered the railway network of Austria today. The DB red ran on its own power to the Alp country, pulling the Railpool liveried 187 005 and 007. Remarkable, because (as far as we know) the Traxx AC3 has no final approval for any country yet, although several machines sport DE/AT/CH markings and AC3s are already being used by BLS Cargo In Switzerland.
[CH] Railpool 187 008 and 004 operated by BLS Cargo [update]
update 2014|09|02
[CH] Railpool 187 008 and 004 operated by BLS Cargo [update]
BLS Cargo is currently evaluating Bombardier's Traxx AC3 locomotives in revenue service. Railpool unit no. 187 004 and 008 are now being used to haul the Lecco – Emmenbrücke vv steel train together. The engines take the train to Chiasso where Trenitalia takes over to Lecco. - BR/trainspotter.ch
Railadventure 139 558 pulling Railpool 187 004 and 008 on 05.08.2014. Both silver locmotives were taken to Basel that day. - AH/TAZ
Railpool Traxx AC3 LM
2014-07-20
[CH/DE] 187 002 going back to Kassel
update 2014|07|20
[CH/DE] 187 002 going back to Kassel
Nice combination. RailAdventure 139 558-1 takes Traxx AC3 locomotive no. 187 002 back to Kassel. - YH
Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation and the leasing company Railpool have signed a framework agreement for the delivery of 65 BOMBARDIER TRAXX locomotives, with a first call-off of 35 locomotives and an option of up to 30 additional locomotives. The total potential contract value is up to 250 million euro (340 million US). The value of the call-off based on the list price is approximately 135 million euro (184 million US).
This contract extends the operating range of the TRAXX locomotives: The MS locomotive will operate on the new East-West corridor linking Poland with the Netherlands. The AC locomotive will operate not only in Germany, Switzerland and Austria but also in Hungary and Romania and will be newly equipped with ETCS (European Train Control System) and Last Mile functionality. The last mile feature, an additional diesel-electric engine plus battery, enables AC locomotives to operate even in non-electrified areas such as terminals, stations or ports – changing locomotives for the non-electrified last mile is now a thing of the past.
“With this contract we continue our successful partnership with Bombardier and are able to offer our customers the proven TRAXX locomotives concept. Furthermore, we are developing with Bombardier new corridors and are upgrading our existing fleet with new safety systems, to follow our customers’ demands as a reliable partner for the future”, said Torsten Lehnert, CEO at Railpool.
“These innovative locomotives will facilitate rail operation on new, international corridors. They also allow for a much longer range and for more flexibility in operation than ever before,” added Ulrich Jochem, President Locomotives, Bombardier Transportation.
The locomotives are designed for speeds of up to 160 km/h. Bombardier will assemble the locomotives in Kassel, Germany, carbodies at its Wroclaw site in Poland and bogies in Siegen, Germany. Propulsion and controls as well as ATP (Automatic Train Protection) equipment will be manufactured at Bombardier's sites in Mannheim and Hennigsdorf, Germany, and Västeras, Sweden.
Railcolor: Exact number per version are not mentioned, and sure can change before/during delivery depending on market developments. With this order Railpool increases the number of Traxx locomotives with Last Mile feature in its fleet. At this moment already 8 are built and soon will be handed over (no.187 001-008). New is that locomotives with Last Mile feature will also be available Hungary and Romania.
A Traxx MS both homologated for the Netherlands and Poland is new to Bombardier. Only the Siemens ES 64 F4 was available with this combination until now.
[EU] Traxx F160 AC3 Last Mile locomotives: recent activity
update 2014|06|09
[EU] Traxx F160 AC3 Last Mile locomotives: recent activity
Spiez, June 5 2014, units 187 001, 002 and 006:
June 6 2014, 187 001 and 006 and a little trip from Spiez up to Kanderstag and back:
Meanwhile, 187 004, 005 and 007 are on their way to the Czech Republic (destination VUZ Velim test center). RailAdventure picked up the 004 in Ingolstadt and the 005 and 007 came from Kassel.
[EU] Railpool sold to Oaktree, 5 new Vectrons ordered
update 2014|05|12
[EU] Railpool sold to Oaktree, 5 new Vectrons ordered
Last week we brought you the news that Beacon Rail got a new owner. Now another leasing company is being sold. Oaktree Capital has acquired Railpool from KfW IPEX-Bank GmbH and HSH Nordbank AG.
On 09.05.2014, funds managed by Oaktree, a leader among global investment managers specializing in alternative investments, acquired all shares of Railpool. The previous shareholders are the two banks KfW IPEX-Bank GmbH and HSH Nordbank AG, each with 50 percent. Both banks will continue to be lenders to Railpool and support the future growth of the company. The purchase price was not disclosed.
"We plan significant investments in new, innovative vehicles, the expansion of our excellent team as well as the internationalization of our business. As we continue to offer our customers modern, interoperable locomotives with an attractive full-service package, we are very pleased to welcome Oaktree as an excellent partner, who will support us strategically and financially in our plans going forward," said Torsten Lehnert.
A milestone for Bombardier and BLS Cargo. On 05.03.2014, the Swiss freight operator completed the delivery of an articulated trainset to the freight terminal in Visp. This was done on a track section without catenary. No problem for the Traxx locomotive with additional diesel engine and battery.
BLS Cargo will transport seven new trainsets from Bussnang to Visp. Locomotive 187 002 was used to deliver the first transport. With the locomotive BLS Cargo no longer has to rely on a local shunting company, just to move the train over the last couple of kilometers. This results in a more efficient process for BLS Cargo.
The Bombardier Traxx AC3 with Last Mile module is not yet homologated for Switzerland. This commercial run was still part of the approval process. BLS Cargo expects that the locomotive will be granted full approval within months. By then, it will receive two additional locomotives of the same type. - BLS Cargo
187 001-003 - test bed locomotivesRailpool Traxx AC3 LM
2014-02-06
[DE] Railpool 187 004 and 005 under own power [updated]
update 2014|02|06
[DE] Railpool 187 004 and 005 under own power [updated]
On 04.02.2014, Railpool 187 004 and 187 005 ran to the east of Germany, under their own power. Under 05.02.2014 they made test runs, together, from Wusterwitz to Genthin vv. On 06.02.2014 they were seen with DB Regio coaches. - NG
Railpool Traxx AC3 LM
2014-01-13
[DE] Railpool 187 005 close-up
update 2014|01|13
[DE] Railpool 187 005 close-up
Today, 187 005, built for Railpool, was made ready for transport. Destination still unknown. This gave Christian Klotz the opportunity to make some detail pictures.
Railpool Traxx AC3 LM
2013
2013-11-30
[DE] First Traxx AC3 in the livery of Railpool
update 2013|11|30
[DE] First Traxx AC3 in the livery of Railpool
For the first time since its introduction in 2011, we can see a new Traxx AC3 locomotive in the corporate colors of the first customer: Railpool. The lease company has five such locomotives, with additional Last Mile diesel engine, on order.
Railpool 187 004 is the first to be out-shopped.
Railpool has decided to strictly apply its standard livery to the locomotive; A silver base livery and the blue banner on every side. Very smart is the application of the big Railpool logos on the ribbed side walls. It will always be visible when no Flex Panel is used. Customers of Railpool to use such a Panel, to be spanned over the ribs, to apply their own identity to the locomotive.
Railpool will also buy the three prototype locomotives (the designated 187 001-003) that are being used for tests and homologation right now. Resume, they will have eight Traxx AC3 locomotives in their fleet, for now.
187 001-003 - test bed locomotivesRailpool Traxx AC3 LM
2013-06-04
[EU] t&l Munich 2013: Bombardier: Extending your reach in rail
update 2013|06|04
[EU] t&l Munich 2013: Bombardier: Extending your reach in rail
Extending your reach in rail, that is the slogan of Bombardier during the t&l fair in Munich, that opened today. The company offers information of all its latest products. The two main items:
> Bombardier Traxx AC Last Mile Locomotive is currently in the approval process
> Last Mile function with additional low-emission Diesel engine and battery enables the seamless transportation of goods
Railcolor: On the place where a red 186 series locomotive was exhibited, two years ago, now a Bombardier Traxx AC3 Last Mile locomotive is parked. Locomotive 187 003 has special red flex panels for the fair, also sporting the logos of DB Schenker Rail. The latter company has opted for many new Traxx locomotives for its freight oparator, but there is no official order for machines with last mile option. For now, twelve Last Mile have been sold by Bombardier. Five new machines and the three prototypes will be delivered to lease company Railpool. Four more will be built for leasing company Akiem.
187 001-003 - test bed locomotivesAkiem Traxx AC3 Last MileRailpool Traxx AC3 LM
2012
2012-08-27
[EU] TRAXX Last Mile at Innotrans 2012
update 2012|08|27
[EU] TRAXX Last Mile at Innotrans 2012
It is time to refresh the memory a bit. In September Bombardier will present its Last Mile feature again. Now we expect a locomotive in final configuration, as the one in Munich 2011 was more like a dummy. Bombardier offers some extra footage since 2011 explaining the principle of the Last Mile diesel and battery:
Click the image to go to the new Traxx AC3 section. Last week, Bombardier presented the latest member of the Traxx family, the successor of the Traxx AC2 (aka Baureihe 185.2). We were invited to take a close look and ask questions. The section contains everything we got to know. Have fun! (Hope you don't mind we wrote in the past tense..prevents the text from getting too outdated too quickly). 187 001-003 - test bed locomotivesRailpool Traxx AC3 LM
2010
2010-12-23
[EU] Railpool orders another 36 Traxx locomotives
update 2010|12|23
[EU] Railpool orders another 36 Traxx locomotives
Yesterday, Railpool announced a second order for modern electrics. Next to the six Vectrons from Siemens, it expands its fleet until mid-2013 with 36 Traxx locomotives from Bombardier. Railpool already has 58 Traxx units (both AC and MS) on order, the majority of them being delivered by now.
Both Bombardier and Railpool do not say much about the specifications of the 36 new units. Only that delivery is scheduled for July 2011 to November 2013 and that these Traxx units will incorporate innovations of some kind. Volume of the order is approximately 120 million euro. - Railpool/Bombardier
Railpool 185.2Railpool Traxx AC3 LMRailpool TRAXX MS2e