News and Insights
Successful Homologation of the Euro9000 Locomotive in the Netherlands and Belgium
Frauenfeld, Switzerland, December, 20, 2023
The leading provider of innovative hybrid locomotive leasing services, European Loc Pool (ELP), has achieved a new milestone. The Euro9000 locomotive has been successfully approved for use in Belgium and the Netherlands. These approvals, granted by the European Railway Agency (ERA) on December 20, 2023, mark a crucial step in the geographical expansion of this “Next Generation” locomotive’s operational area.
In close partnership with Stadler Valencia, European Loc Pool was able to achieve these approvals, following the type approval and authorization for operation in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland by the ERA earlier in March and November of this year. This also opens up one of the most important operational areas for the Euro9000 locomotive, the connection from the ARA ports, Europe’s largest port region, to the hinterland.
Euro9000 Approval in the Netherlands
European Loc Pool is also pleased with the successful certification of the Euro9000 locomotive in the Netherlands. The Euro9000 will be used on various routes in the Netherlands, particularly on connections to the ports of Amsterdam and Rotterdam, the largest port in Europe, via the Betuwe Route and Brabant Route to Germany. The increasing number of freight services crossing the German-Dutch border highlights the importance of this connection. With the certification of the Euro9000, the use of additional diesel shunting locomotives becomes a thing of the past.
In the Netherlands, European Loc Pool has already established a service network, in collaboration with service partners Stadler Rail Services and Alstom.
As Willem Goosen points out: “The Euro9000 will fundamentally change rail freight transport in Europe. We are proud that as European Loc Pool, we have initiated this change and continue to drive it forward. The certification in the Netherlands is another step in our innovation initiatives, and we are confident that this locomotive will very efficiently and sustainably influence the industry.”
Euro9000 Approval in Belgium
The Euro9000 locomotive is now officially approved for use on Belgian railways and plays a crucial role in freight transport, particularly in connection with the Port of Antwerp, Europe’s second-largest seaport, as well as the Port of Zeebrugge.
In practical operations, freight transport on the Belgian railway network is mainly handled over two main axes. One leads eastward via Montzen and the other southward via Athus, both of which are internationally connected through European freight corridors. These routes have significant gradients and therefore often require the use of double traction with conventional 4-axle electric locomotives. Additionally, the port areas of Antwerp and Zeebrugge are mostly non-electrified, necessitating the use of additional diesel shunting locomotives and/or service providers for the first and last miles. With the certification of the hybrid “Next Generation Locomotive” Euro9000, this is now a thing of the past.
Thanks to the comprehensive service network of European Loc Pool in Belgium, established in collaboration with Stadler Rail Services and Rail Service Net (RSN), optimal maintenance and care for the Euro9000 are ensured.
Willem Goosen, CEO of European Loc Pool, expressed his pleasure about the certification: “Even in Belgium, where freight trains are becoming increasingly challenging due to their length and weight gain, the Euro9000 will establish itself as the most modern locomotive on the market. We already have several customers who have shown great interest in this locomotive. The first customer, who contracted 4 Euro9000 locomotives from us a few years ago, will soon commence operations in Belgium. We have high expectations for the Euro9000 in Belgium!”.
In summary of the Euro9000 Homologation Success
The approval of the Euro9000 in Belgium and the Netherlands is another success for European Loc Pool and marks an important step in the geographic expansion of this locomotive’s operational area. The Euro9000 has already been approved in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Further certification in Italy is expected in 2024.
The Euro9000 locomotive represents the latest cutting-edge technology in the European rail industry and is considered “The Next Generation” in rail freight transport. With its impressive performance and flexibility, the Euro9000 will pave the way for a more efficient and sustainable future in rail freight transport.
More about the Hybrid Locomotives
European Loc Pool (ELP) focuses on innovative six-axle hybrid locomotives with a power output of up to 2.8 MW in diesel mode, 9 MW in electric mode, and a traction force of 500 kN. All vehicles come equipped with ETCS-Baseline 3 as standard for operation on Level 2 tracks. The first ELP EuroDual locomotives have been in operation on the German rail network since April 2020. They enable operation on electrified and non-electrified lines, as well as last-mile and shunting operations. All Dual locomotives are equipped with 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
Founded in May 2018 and headquartered in Frauenfeld, Switzerland, European Loc Pool (ELP) is a dynamic force in the locomotive leasing sector, known for its innovative approach.
ELP aims to serve rail operators and logistics companies across Europe and focuses on new innovative six-axle hybrid locomotives with full-service leae agreements.
European Loc Pool’s comprehensive full-service leasing package includes the maintenance and insurance as well as the unique option for clients to customize the exterior of their 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