Siemens Vectron Gets EU Approval for Passenger Speeds Up to 230 km/h

Siemens Mobility has secured European Union authorization for its Vectron locomotive to operate passenger services at speeds of up to 230 km/h, marking a first for a modern locomotive in this category. The approval covers Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and Hungary, with Denmark expected to follow later. Czech rail operator České dráhy (ČD) will be the first to benefit, having ordered 50 Vectron MS multisystem locomotives in early 2022, with deliveries already underway and entry into service planned from January 1, 2026.

The Vectron locomotives are fitted with the European Train Control System (ETCS) Baseline 3.6, utilizing Siemens Mobility’s Trainguard 200 on-board unit (OBU), and include all necessary national train protection systems for operation in the approved countries. The modular design of the Vectron platform allows for easy expansion of its speed range, primarily requiring adjustments to the gear ratio.

Siemens Mobility has sold over 2,800 Vectron locomotives to more than 110 customers, with the fleet collectively covering approximately 1.3 billion kilometers. Locomotives built on the Vectron platform have received approval for operation in 20 European nations, making it one of the most widely certified locomotive families in the region.

Steffen Bobsien, Vice President Locomotives and Passenger Coaches at Siemens Mobility said:

“This authorization sets a new benchmark: Vectron is the first modern locomotive authorized for passenger service at speeds of up to 230 km/h. We are proud of this achievement, as it significantly expands the application range of our proven platform in international passenger transport and gives operators new options for fast cross-border services.”

Image: Siemens