Frauenfeld, August, 28, 2023
European Loc Pool (ELP) proudly announces the successful completion of test drives with the EuroDual 90 80 2159 246-8 locomotive in Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia. Throughout June and July 2023, these test runs were conducted to evaluate the locomotive’s compatibility with the local infrastructure and adherence to safety regulations.
The EuroDual 246, originally designated for the German market, underwent tailored modifications to meet the unique operating requirements in the Balkans. Additionally, it received a special design, tailor-made for the seamless operation of the EuroDual across the Balkan Peninsula.
EuroDual 246 right after foiling and pantograph rocker change, May 2023 Braunschweig, Germany
The EuroDual locomotive embarked on a series of successful test drives, showcasing its versatility and adaptability for the demanding Balkan region.
Commencing on June 18, 2023, at the Jesenice border station, the locomotive underwent a comprehensive static compatibility assessment by both the Slovenian and Croatian Designed Bodies (DeBo’s). After receiving their approval reports, the eagerly awaited first test drive kicked off from the Zagreb Ranžirni kolodvor marshalling yard.
The testing route spanned from Zagreb to Novska and Okučani before concluding back in Zagreb. This line is equipped with ETCS thus both the class A system (ETCS) and the class B system (PZB) were tested, as well as the dynamic transition between the two systems.
The locomotive drove with its own traction, without load, at a maximum speed of 120 km/h. Both its diesel traction (CAT C175 Engine, 2.8 MW, Stage V, HVO ready) and electric traction (6.2MW, 25kV AC) with a specially adapted 1600mm wide pantograph, were tested, including dynamic transitions between the two modes.
EuroDual 246 at Zagreb RK, June 18, 2023, prepared for the test run
As part of the Common Safety Method (CSM), a comprehensive compatibility test with infrastructure detection systems, especially at railway crossings, was conducted over a test run of more than 250 km. Additionally, a successful compatibility test with the local GSM-R network was carried out.
After successfully passing the required tests in Croatia, the EuroDual 246 proceeded to Slovenia for additional testing, exclusively in diesel traction, over the course of three days. Departing each morning from Ljubljana Central Station, the locomotive covered routes in directions Koper, Jesenice, and Zidani Most. The testing rigorously examined safety systems such as ETCS and PZB, along with compatibility with the local infrastructure and GSM-R network.
EuroDual 246 on test run in Slovenia, June 26–30, 2023
Following the successful completion of tests in Slovenia and Croatia, the EuroDual was transported to Serbia. As Serbia is not an EU member state, the approval process followed the national legislation of the Republic of Serbia. Prior to entering Serbia, the locomotive was exported from the European Union, with Rail Cargo Carrier and Kombinovani Prevoz handling the process expertly. The compatibility tests in Serbia occurred on July 4, 2023, during which the local infrastructure (Direkcija za železnicu) temporarily blocked the Sremska Mitrovica – Ruma – Golubinci line for the tests.Covering over 120 km, the locomotive underwent rigorous testing at the highest permitted speed on this line, 100 km/h, in both diesel and electric traction. Following the test, the locomotive successfully met all prescribed parameters and returned to Sremska Mitrovica, marking a successful completion of the test run.
Sremska Mitrovica, July 5, 2023, 12:13, EuroDual after successful test run in Serbia
As part of the Balkan test runs, various representatives from major railway carriers operating in Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, Romania, and Bulgaria inspected the EuroDual locomotive at an European Loc Pool commercial event. Notably, some representatives travelled over 700 km to witness this unique locomotive firsthand!
The EuroDual received special praise for its ability to replace double traction and shunting locomotives for first-and last-mile operations, along with its impressive 50,000 km maintenance interval. The special features of the EuroDual allow carriers to optimize their current production concepts and focus on their core business. To further support the successful operation in the Balkans, ELP offers full-service leasing of these locomotives with a care-free maintenance package in all countries of operation.
The approval process in the Balkan is now entering the administrative phase. Approval in Serbia is expected by the end of summer 2023, in Slovenia and Croatia by the end of 2023.
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Press contact European Loc Pool:
Henrike Wilkens
Marketing & Communications
E-mail: henrike.wilkens@europeanlocpool.com
You can also find further information at www.europeanlocpool.com
