Siemens Expands Vectron Family with Battery Electric Breakthrough

A major step forward in rail decarbonisation has been announced after Siemens Mobility and Akiem agreed a framework deal for up to 80 Vectron locomotives, including a new battery-powered variant.

The agreement includes a firm order for 50 locomotives, alongside an option for a further 30 units. It also marks the launch of the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotive, expanding the established Vectron platform into a fully electric, battery-supported solution.

Deliveries are scheduled to begin from 2029/2030, with Akiem set to act as the launch customer, leasing the locomotives to operators across Europe. The latest deal builds on an existing partnership between the two companies, with Akiem having already ordered 120 Vectron and dual-mode locomotives since 2021.

The new design removes the need for a diesel engine, instead using a modular traction battery system. This allows the locomotives to operate under overhead electric wires as well as on non-electrified sections, providing flexibility for routes where full electrification is not in place.

Performance specifications indicate a locomotive capable of speeds up to 160 km/h, delivering up to 2,400 kW of power in both electric and battery modes. With battery configurations exceeding 2 MWh, the locomotives are designed to handle a wide range of freight and passenger operations, while offering a maximum tractive effort of 300 kN.

The development forms part of Siemens Mobility’s broader push into alternative traction technologies. The company has been expanding its portfolio with battery and hydrogen solutions, including the Mireo Plus B and Mireo Plus H trains, aimed at reducing emissions on partially electrified routes.

By introducing a battery-based dual-mode locomotive, Siemens aims to support operators transitioning away from diesel, enabling lower-emission operations without requiring immediate full network electrification.

Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock, Siemens Mobility said:

“Akiem’s decision is a strong vote of confidence in our technology, and we greatly value that trust. With the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery, we are taking a major development step based on the proven Vectron platform, adding a new fully electric member to the Vectron family. For customers, this means greater operational flexibility on routes where electrification is not continuous, while supporting the transition to more sustainable rail operations.”

Fabien Rochefort, CEO Akiem said:

“Akiem and Siemens’ teams shared a common vision that Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery will meet the vast majority of our customer needs when operating on non-electrified lines, significantly reducing costs of operations against existing market solutions, while reducing CO2 emission and noise. Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery is a natural and reliable continuity of the proven Dual Mode platform. We are delighted to extend our Vectron portfolio, while innovating and differentiating to the benefit of our customers everywhere in Europe.”

Image: Siemens