New Zealand orders Swiss locomotives
The Swiss company Stadler in Switzerland has signed two locomotive contracts with Kiwi Rail in New Zealand. One deal involves the delivery of nine mainline locomotives equipped with ETCS (European Train Control System) for seamless operation on the North Island.
The second agreement includes the supply of 24 hybrid battery-diesel yard shunt locomotives, along with spare parts, specialised tools, and technical support services.
The locomotives have a maximum axle load of 16 t and are specifically designed for use within all Kiwi Rail’s shunting areas. They will primarily operate as zero- emission vehicles, significantly contributing to the reduction of Kiwi Rail's carbon-footprint.
The units will be run from outside the driving cab within the shunting yard limits by means of a safe and resilient remote-control system. (ben)