Siemens Vectron Dual Mode cleared for Germany–Austria cross-border operation

Siemens Mobility’s Vectron Dual Mode locomotive has been cleared to operate across the German–Austrian border, marking a significant step for the bi-mode fleet. Austria has now become the second country, after Germany, to grant authorization for the locomotive type, allowing it to run in both countries without restriction.

The first two locomotives approved for cross-border service have been handed over to Austrian rail operator Stern & Hafferl Verkehr. The locomotives were built at Siemens Mobility’s Munich-Allach facility and are fitted with the European Train Control System. This includes the modular Siemens On-board Unit Trainguard Basic with ETCS Baseline 3.6.

Dual-mode locomotives such as the Vectron Dual Mode are designed to operate electrically under overhead wires while also running on diesel power where electrification is not available. Siemens Mobility said this flexibility allows for locally emission-free running on electrified sections, while maintaining uninterrupted journeys on non-electrified routes, an advantage particularly relevant in urban and suburban areas.

The locomotive draws on established technology from the wider Vectron platform. It has a standard gauge of 1,435 mm, a service weight of 90 tonnes and is configured for 15 kV AC electrified networks. Maximum power output reaches 2,400 kW when operating under catenary and up to 2,000 kW in diesel mode. The diesel tank holds 2,600 litres, and the locomotive is capable of speeds of up to 160 km/h. A train power supply is included, and a variant supporting both 15 kV and 25 kV AC systems is also available.

Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock, Siemens Mobility said:

“The authorization of the Vectron Dual Mode for cross-border use between Germany and Austria reinforces our commitment to providing our customers with the most powerful and flexible locomotives for European freight and passenger transport. With its combination of electric and diesel traction, the Vectron Dual Mode enables seamless operation even on partially electrified routes – without time-consuming locomotive changes. This increases efficiency and supports the modal shift to rail.”

Stern & Hafferl Verkehr said the approval represents a major milestone for its operations, particularly in supporting sustainable freight transport.

Günter Neumann, CEO of Stern & Hafferl Verkehr said:

“We recognized the potential of the Vectron Dual Mode locomotives early on and made a deliberate decision to adopt them. The recently granted Austria-wide authorization and the complete handover of all six locomotives mark an important milestone for us. They enable seamless, efficient operations right through to the last mile and make a significant contribution to environmentally conscious freight transport – with the goal of shifting even more traffic from road to rail and strengthening our region sustainably.”

Image: Siemens