The single-cab locomotives will also be more environmentally friendly and reliable than the current diesel fleet, and will be tailored to the demanding weather conditions in Finland. Each locomotive will be equipped with two 950kW EU Stage V diesel engines, producing an overall output of 1.9MW with a maximum speed of 120km/h. The 88 tonne, 18m-long locomotives will have a maximum draft force of 346kN, and will be capable of pulling 2000-tonne trains.

The locomotives will enter services in 2022, with delivery due to be completed by 2025, and will gradually replace diesel locomotives manufactured in the 1960s, 70s and 80s. The contract also includes an option for 100 additional locomotives and an option for maintenance by Stadler.

“Our strategy is to increase the share of energy-efficient electric transport in rail freight,” says director of VR Transport, Mr Martti Koskinen. “However, the yards and many freight loading and unloading points are non-electrified, so we still need diesel locomotives. We want our diesel locomotives to be new with today’s top-of-the-line engines that are more efficient, safe and reliable.”

VR says a major consideration in awarding Stadler the contract was its experience in supplying trains to Nordic countries, as the locomotives need to cope with snow, ice and temperatures as low as -40°C.

The contract between VR Group and Stadler will be finalised during April.

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