Vectron MS authorized in Germany

The multisystem version of the Vectron locomotive received authorization from Germany’s Federal Railway Authority (EBA) in June. Vectron MS is equipped for operation under line voltages of 15 and 25 kV AC and 1.5 and 3 kV DC. It has a nominal rating of up to 6400 kW and is built for a top speed of 200 km/h.

The authorization process also included the approval of additional functions such as an electric brake effort of up to 240 kN, multiple unit operation via ZMS multi-traction control and ZDS double traction control, and double-heading with other Vectrons as well as with classes 120, 152, 182 (ES64U2) and 189 (ES64F4).

For an AC or multi-system locomotive, other customer-specific versions can be certified through a delta review based on the first prototype that has now been granted authorization. The transfer of Vectron MS authorization to neighboring countries like Austria is in full sway.

The first Vectron MS locomotives were ordered by the European Locomotive Leasing GmbH (ELL), which concluded a master agreement with Siemens in March 2014 for as many as 50 Vectron locomotives.

Vectron AC certified in Norway

The Norwegian Railway Authority (SJT) granted authorization for the AC version of the Vectron on July 1, 2014. The Vectron AC is designed to operate on alternating voltages of 15 and 25 kV. This authorization applies to Vectrons built for a nominal rating of 6400 kW and a maximum speed of 200 km/h.

Network stability is a particular challenge in Norway. The reasons for this are the rotary converters used at many places in the system which can cause harmonics problems in connection with modern three-phase AC propulsion vehicles. Vectron passed these required tests immediately.

After successful authorization two Vectron AC locomotives were soon put into use by CargoNet in freight traffic on the demanding Oslo–Bergen line.