Debut of the Initial Electric Alstom Traxx Locomotive for Romania Held in Bucharest
Romania is set to modernize its rail fleet with the acquisition of Traxx 3 MS electric locomotives from Alstom, as part of the "LE1" acquisition contract. These locomotives are renowned for their multi-system capabilities, enabling cross-border operations across various European countries and rail electrification systems.
The Traxx 3 MS locomotives boast compatibility with multiple voltage and signaling systems, advanced energy efficiency, high reliability, and enhanced safety systems that comply with European rail interoperability standards. This modern technology is optimized for both passenger and freight services, making it an ideal choice for Romania's rail modernization efforts.
The purpose of this acquisition is threefold: to modernize Romania’s rail fleet, improve cross-border rail connectivity, and support the expansion of electrified rail services in line with European interoperability requirements. This move reflects Romania's commitment to sustainable and efficient rail transport modernization.
The contract for this purchase was signed in January 2024 between the Romanian Railway Reform Authority (ARF) and a consortium consisting of Alstom Transport SA and Alstom Transportation Germany GmbH SpA. The Traxx 3 MS electric locomotive features redundant control technology based on the new Mitrac electronic control system and multi-system capability compatible with all four European electrification systems.
The locomotive has a bogie with tubular shaft drive, allowing speeds of up to 200 km/h. It is designed for high interoperability, energy efficiency, and long-term operational reliability. The project is scheduled for completion within 35 months.
The Traxx 3 MS electric locomotive is currently undergoing a comprehensive dynamic testing program at the Faurei Testing Centre in August. Once the testing program is completed, the final visual dark red coating will be implemented. The testing program will be followed by testing in Germany on TSI-certified lines.
The new locomotive currently has a temporary blue livery to protect the surface during testing. Once delivered, these new locomotives will serve several electrified public rail routes, including Dej-Brasov-Bucharest-Constanta, Timisoara-Arad-Brasov-Bucharest-Constanta, Timisoara-Cluj-Napoca-Iasi, and Iasi/Suceava-Bucharest-Constanta.
The acquisition of the Traxx 3 MS electric locomotive is financed through Romania's National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) under the sustainable transport component. The event took place in Bucharest, with representatives from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, ARF president Mihai Barbu, Alstom's managing director for Romania, Bulgaria, and Moldova, Gabriel Stanciu, project teams from ARF and Alstom Romania, and members of the press in attendance.
This locomotive is the first new, modern locomotive purchased by the Romanian state in nearly 15 years. The total contract value, excluding VAT, for the purchase is RON 767.51 million, including 20 years of maintenance. The unveiling event was captured by the source of the photo, Facebook/ARF - Autoritatea pentru Reformă Feroviară.
In conclusion, the arrival of the Traxx 3 MS electric locomotives marks a significant step towards modernizing Romania’s rail fleet and improving cross-border rail connectivity. This acquisition underscores Romania's commitment to sustainable and efficient rail transport modernization.
The acquisition of Traxx 3 MS electric locomotives is not only aimed at modernizing Romania's rail fleet, but also supports the expansion of electrified rail services in alignment with European interoperability standards. This purchase, financed through Romania's National Recovery and Resilience Plan, further strengthens the country's commitment to sustainable and efficient rail transport modernization, which also involves advancements in the areas of finance, technology, and transportation.
With the Traxx 3 MS locomotives' multi-system capabilities, Romania can expect improved cross-border rail connectivity and increased efficiency in both passenger and freight services, contributing to the growth of its rail industry. The adoption of modern technology, such as the Mitrac electronic control system, ensures compliance with European rail interoperability standards and fosters a safer, more reliable rail network.
