SWITZERLAND: BLS Cargo has selected Siemens Mobility for a contract to supply 25 multi-system electric freight locomotives, after what it described as an ‘intensive’ tendering process including test running with candidate designs.
The locomotives are to be delivered in 2020-25, replacing older locos and supporting the operator’s plans for ‘targeted growth’.
They will be equipped for operation in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands and Belgium, enabling cross-border use on the north–south corridor linking the North Sea with Italy.
Announcing the order on October 21, BLS Cargo said it would gain access to the Belgian market for the first time, supported by local operator Crossrail Benelux which it acquired earlier this year.
BLS Cargo’s current fleet includes 15 Vectron locos.
