A fleet of new Bombardier locomotives will strengthen the cross-border operations of the Captrain Deutschland Group, after a new deal between the two was agreed. The TRAXX multi-system locos will be delivered in early 2018 and used mainly in Germany, The Netherlands and Belgium, linking ports with the European industry heartland.

The TRAXX MS model, part of the highly successful TRAXX platform, is compatible with all common European voltages, making it particularly suitable for use in member states, and has proven reliability rates of nearly 100 per cent.

East-West axis

Henrik Würdemann, Managing Director of Captrain Deutschland GmbH, said, “The Bombardier TRAXX multi-system locomotives’ proven technology and reliability were crucial in our decision. This investment will enable us to further strengthen our cross-border freight transport on the East-West axis and let us offer our customers additional, continuous logistics solutions across country borders.”

Mike Niebling, Director of Sales at Bombardier Transportation Locomotives, added: “We are delighted that Captrain Deutschland has chosen our locomotives. We believe that they will be a great benefit because these new locomotives will enable the company to enhance the performance on the logistic corridors to the busy ports of Antwerp and Rotterdam.”

Service network

Bombardier Transportation offers integrated fleet support and tailored service solutions for the more than 400 TRAXX MS locomotives that have been sold. This enables operators to benefit from a long-term spare parts guarantee and an extensive Europe-wide service network.

Rail-based service provider Captrain Deutschland GmbH uses a fleet of powerful locomotives, the latest wagon technology, train, marshalling and infrastructure services, as well as on-site loading and unloading, to provide tailor-made railway transport systems across Europe.

‘Last Mile’

Locomotive leasing company Railpool meanwhile has delivered a second TRAXX AC3 ‘Last Mile’ locomotive to HSL Logistik GmbH in Hamburg. It will be used by HSL in Germany and Austria and is capable of being used in non-electrified rail sidings, connections and terminals. Specifications include a diesel motor and additional battery, ensuring that the operator can cover non-electrified areas and save having to use shunting locomotives and diesel engines in many places.

Haiko Böttcher, Managing Director of HSL Logistik, said: “The TRAXX AC3 Last Mile allows us to offer a new flexible production concept, in turn allowing us to increase our competitive edge. With Railpool as a reliable full-service partner, we can retain our high-end tailor-made logistics solutions and can offer our clients the best possible transport service.”