Germany Rail Freight: EURODUAL Boosts Sustainable Transport

News from Germany – June 10, 2024

The ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) is enhancing its commitment to sustainable and flexible freight transport with the expansion of its EURODUAL locomotive fleet. This strategic move, highlighted by the recent delivery of a third EURODUAL locomotive from European Loc Pool (ELP), significantly strengthens RCG’s TransFLEX ad-hoc rail services within Germany. This expansion is a testament to the growing demand for versatile and environmentally conscious rail solutions, capable of navigating both electrified and non-electrified railway infrastructure. The following analysis will delve into the operational advantages of these hybrid locomotives, explore the growth trajectory of TransFLEX, and highlight its positive impact on both the efficiency of freight logistics and the reduction of carbon emissions.

The EURODUAL Advantage: Hybrid Power for Flexible Operations

The EURODUAL locomotives, manufactured by Stadler, represent a significant advancement in rail technology. These six-axle locomotives combine the benefits of electric and diesel traction. This dual-mode capability enables the seamless transition between electrified and non-electrified tracks. The key advantage lies in their ability to access company sidings and other non-electrified facilities without the need for additional shunting or locomotive changes. This capability streamlines the logistics chain, ensuring a continuous and efficient flow of goods directly to the customer’s premises. This operational flexibility is particularly valuable for ad-hoc services, where rapid response and adaptability are critical.

TransFLEX: A Growth Story in German Rail Freight

Launched as a pilot project in 2022, TransFLEX has rapidly evolved into a cornerstone of RCG’s German logistics operations. The service’s initial deployment with two locomotives has expanded to a fleet of 20, reflecting its increasing market relevance and the rising demand for flexible rail freight solutions. The success of TransFLEX is underscored by its impressive operational performance. In 2024 alone, the service covered 1.87 million kilometers and transported 2.25 million net tonnes of freight, demonstrating its capacity to handle significant volumes of goods across a diverse range of routes.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

The adoption of EURODUAL locomotives and the expansion of TransFLEX bring substantial environmental benefits. Each rail transport contributes to a direct reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to road transport, supporting corporate sustainability objectives. The increased efficiency of rail transport also leads to economic advantages for both RCG and its customers, including lower operational costs and improved supply chain reliability. By reducing reliance on diesel-only locomotives and shunting operations, RCG is actively contributing to a greener and more sustainable freight transport system.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Sustainable Rail Freight

The expansion of RCG’s EURODUAL fleet and the ongoing growth of TransFLEX exemplify a strategic commitment to sustainable and flexible rail freight solutions. The combination of hybrid locomotive technology and a customer-focused service model positions RCG favorably to meet the evolving needs of the logistics industry. This expansion provides many benefits. The EURODUAL’s flexibility and the streamlined operations of TransFLEX enhance the overall efficiency of freight transportation. The significant reduction in CO₂ emissions associated with these rail services aligns with growing environmental concerns and corporate sustainability goals. Furthermore, these developments contribute to a more robust and resilient freight transport network, capable of adapting to changing market demands and ensuring the reliable delivery of goods. As the demand for sustainable and efficient freight solutions continues to rise, RCG is well-positioned to lead the way in shaping the future of rail freight transportation.

Companies mentioned in the article:

• ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG): A leading European rail freight company, committed to sustainable and efficient transportation solutions.
• European Loc Pool (ELP): A company that provides rail leasing market with their “Passion for Traction”.
• Stadler: A manufacturer of rolling stock, including the EURODUAL locomotives.