The trial, which began on April 1, involves a Siemens-owned 5.2MW 3kV dc demonstrator locomotive, which is being used daily on two return services between Warsaw and Krakow, a total distance of around 1250km. Testing is due to continue until the end of the month, but may be extended.
Siemens launched the Vectron family of diesel and electric locomotives in 2008, and the prototype locomotives have been tested in various European countries over the last two years, although they are only currently certified for use in Poland.
Nonetheless, leasing company Railpool has ordered six 6.4MW 15kV ac Vectrons for delivery this year, while Italian open access operator Fuori Muro has ordered two 5.2MW 3kV dc units, which will be introduced on services from Genoa to Interporto Rivalta Scrivia near Alessandria in December 2013.
