News and Insights
Flex is reaffirming its choice of ELP and is ordering a second EuroDual locomotive!
Frauenfeld / Leipzig, October, 18, 2023
European Loc Pool (ELP), a leading provider of innovative locomotive leasing services, is pleased to announce the signing of a contract for another EuroDual locomotive with Flex Rail Services GmbH.
The signing of the 10-year lease agreement significantly strengthens the partnership between the two companies. Flex has already gained excellent experience with ELP’s EuroDual locomotive, which has been in operation at Flex since August 2023.
The EuroDual is a six-axle hybrid locomotive, ideal for the “first and last mile.” It has the capability to transport very heavy loads and boasts up to 2.8 MW under diesel power and up to 6.2 MW under electric power.
The EuroDual locomotive that Flex already has in operation is known for its versatility. Jan Habraneck, CEO of Flex Rail Services, stated: “We see the versatility of the EuroDual locomotive as a clear advantage. It opens up new opportunities for a wide range of tasks in freight transportation. The immense flexibility of this locomotive and the option to increase train capacities are crucial factors for us.”
The choice of the EuroDual locomotive reflects Flex’s strong commitment to sustainability and efficiency in the transportation sector. This focus on sustainability and efficiency is crucial for maximizing the benefits of the railway system. Flex is actively working to minimize the use of diesel locomotives, and these efforts are well-received by customers.
“Flex primarily focuses on spot traffic, which demands a high level of flexibility. In this regard, the EuroDual locomotive stands as the market leader – a true multitasker. It is therefore irreplaceable and unbeatable,” says Willem Goosen, CEO of European Loc Pool.
The high availability of the locomotive is another crucial aspect. Jan Habraneck underlines, “In addition to the procurement of the locomotive, which we couldn’t handle alone, the locomotive’s availability is of paramount importance. ELP has already taken a leading role in this regard by ensuring unprecedented availability, which is of immeasurable value to us.”
The delivery of the second EuroDual locomotive to Flex is scheduled for January 2025.
More about the hybrid locomotives
European Loc Pool focuses on innovative six-axle hybrid locomotives with a power output of up to 2.8 MW diesel, 9 MW electric and a traction capacity of 500 kN. As standard, all vehicles are equipped with ETCS Baseline 3 for Level 2 operations. The first ELP EuroDual locomotives have been in service on the German rail network since April 2020. They enable operation on electrified and non-electrified lines as well as load-mile and shunting operations. All dual locomotives are equipped with radio remote control.
From mid-2023, the second generation of ELP’s dual locomotives, the Euro9000, were put into service as a hybrid multi-system electric locomotive designed for use in all European corridors. As the “launching customer,” European Loc Pool ordered the first ten Euro9000 locomotives from Stadler in May 2019. The first version with 1.9 MW of diesel and 9 MW of electric power at 500 kN tractive effort will be used in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, and Switzerland. Subsequently, the locomotive’s area of operation will be expanded to other countries and corridors.
About European Loc Pool AG
European Loc Pool (ELP) is a young, innovative leasing company for locomotives and was founded in May 2018. The company is headquartered in Frauenfeld, Switzerland. ELP ordered the first EuroDual locomotives in the third quarter of 2018 Since then, ELP has signed a framework agreement with Stadler for 100 Co’Co’ hybrid locomotives. From this agreement, 85 locomotives have already been leased under long-term full-service contracts with more than 30 operators in six countries. ELP targets rail operators and logistics companies across Europe and focuses on new innovative six-axle hybrid locomotives. ELP’s full-service leasing includes a comprehensive maintenance and insurance offer as well as the possibility to customise the exterior of the locomotives.
ELP is committed to sustainability and utilise advanced technology to reduce their environmental impact while improving operational performance. ELP’s experienced team of professionals prioritises safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness to exceed customer expectations.
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Press contact European Loc Pool:
Henrike Wilkens
Marketing & Communications
E-mail: henrike.wilkens@europeanlocpool.com
About Flex Bahndienstleistungen GmbH
Flex Bahndienstleistungen GmbH is an authorized railway company based in Leipzig, Germany. The company’s core business involves the nationwide transportation of freight trains as well as last-mile services. Key focal points for the company include the locations of Leipzig and Nuremberg. Flex’s mission is to shift freight transportation to rail.