Key Takeaways
1. The Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotive operates without a diesel generator and features a powerful 2 MWh battery pack, significantly larger than similar battery trains.
2. Designed for mainline operations, the locomotive is primarily aimed at freight transport but could also serve passenger routes lacking overhead wires.
3. The battery version generates 2,400 kW at the wheels in both electric and diesel modes, making it more powerful than its diesel counterpart.
4. The locomotive weighs 99 tons and can charge its battery while in motion under overhead wires, eliminating refueling stops.
5. Akiem, a leasing company that operates multi-system Vectrons, will be the first to purchase the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery, with delivery expected in 2029 and 2030.
Siemens Mobility has revealed a new Vectron Dual Mode electric locomotive that operates without needing a diesel generator for power. Officially named the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery, this locomotive comes equipped with a substantial battery pack that has a capacity of 2 MWh. This capacity is roughly four times greater than that of a short regional train like the Mireo Plus BEMU (battery electric multiple unit).
Purpose of the New Locomotive
The Dual Mode is designed for mainline operations, allowing it to pull trains over extended distances. Typically, the dual-mode Vectrons are utilized for freight transport. In Germany, the electric/diesel-electric version of this model is also essential for ICE trains. The new diesel ICE L can reach speeds of 99 mph when paired with a Vectron, and the battery version matches this speed. However, this is slower compared to the standard Vectrons that Siemens offers, which can attain top speeds of 124 mph and 143 mph.
Potential Uses
This indicates that the new battery Vectron will likely focus on freight transport, where high speed is less crucial. Nevertheless, it is also possible that the locomotive could serve passenger trains. In Germany, many vital passenger routes still lack overhead wires, and there are frequent service interruptions due to needed renovations on these routes.
Siemens has not shared exact details on the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery’s range. The range is influenced by the load at the coupling point, which varies significantly from BEMU passenger trains. Interestingly, the new locomotive generates 2,400 kW at the wheels in both modes of operation, making it more powerful than its diesel counterpart. While the diesel generator in the Dual Mode also provides 2,400 kW, it can only supply 2,000 kW to the wheels. The starting tractive effort remains the same at 300 kN, while regular Vectrons offer options of 320 and 350 kN. In essence, this added flexibility in operation comes with a trade-off in performance.
Characteristics of the Battery Version
Weighing in at 99 tons, the battery version of the Dual Mode matches the weight of the regular Vectron Dual Mode models when fully fueled. It does not become lighter throughout its journey. However, it eliminates the need for refueling stops, as the battery can be charged while in motion under an overhead wire. Additionally, it may be able to recover energy during braking, even in the absence of overhead wires, though Siemens did not clearly state this in their announcement. This feature is not available in the diesel-electric Dual Mode.
Siemens Mobility has announced that the leasing company Akiem will be the first to purchase the locomotive. Akiem already operates multi-system Vectrons compatible with various voltages. These vehicles can be recognized by the F-AKIEM markings on their sides. The leasing company is expected to receive its first units in the years 2029 and 2030.
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