ČD Cargo unveils landmark Traxx Universal locomotive
The successful cooperation between Alstom and ČD Cargo is visualised by a special graphic design of the locomotive.
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Alstom, global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, and carrier ČD Cargo are celebrating a major milestone in their collaboration. The Traxx Universal multi-system locomotive (registration number 388.020) was unveiled at the National Railway Day in Nymburk on Saturday 20 September. This locomotive is the twentieth unit of the sixty locomotives that are key to ČD Cargo's expansion into European markets. The locomotive was given a special decal for the occasion with a graphic design symbolizing the successful cooperation with Alstom.
Deliveries of Traxx Universal multi-system locomotives have been underway since 2021 and will continue in 2026-2027. A major milestone this year is the approval of the locomotive with an updated software version with the European Train Control System (ETCS) for regular operation. This modification is gradually being implemented on all machines, including the locomotive just introduced.
"Traxx Universal multi-system locomotives are central to the company's international expansion. So far, they have covered more than 8 million kilometres and, for example, have transported millions of tonnes of goods under the ČD Cargo licence in Germany," says Tomáš Tóth, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ČD Cargo, a.s. "Today is a celebration not only of this success, but also of our long-term cooperation with the manufacturer Alstom. Thanks to the support of the Alstom team from Czech Republic, Germany, Switzerland and France in the challenging process of ETCS approval, today we can say that the Traxx Universal multisystem is a fully interoperable locomotive including the active ETCS system," adds Tóth.
"The slogan 'ČD Cargo stronger in Europe powered by Alstom', which stands on the inaugurated Traxx Universal locomotive, fully describes our long-standing cooperation with ČD Cargo. We see ČD Cargo not only as a customer, but above all as a strong and experienced partner. Smooth cross-border operation is extremely important for freight carriers. Thanks to Alstom’s advanced locomotives, Czech carriers ensure smooth and efficient goods transportation across Europe, reinforcing their strength in international logistics," says Dan Kurucz, Country Managing Director of ALSTOM Czech Republic.
About Traxx Universal multi-system locomotives
The Traxx Universal multi-system locomotives are designed for operation in the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, while part of the fleet has extended operational capability for Slovenia, Croatia and Serbia. As a result, they can be deployed in up to nine European countries. In addition, the locomotives have been designed for the installation of a "last mile " module, which also allows operation in independent traction for the so-called last mile. In general, these particular vehicles are characterised by a maximum speed of up to 160 km/h for freight traffic and an expected service life of at least 30 years. They deliver higher operating performance and reliability with greater energy efficiency and extended maintenance intervals that improve locomotive availability.
ALSTOM™, Traxx™ and Traxx Universal™ are protected trademarks of the Alstom Group.
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