ČD Cargo & Alstom: ETCS, Traxx & European Rail Expansion

Here are a few options for a concise news summary, keeping the constraints in mind:

**Option 1 (Focus on Delivery):**

> ČD Cargo unveiled its 20th **Traxx Universal locomotive**, expanding its fleet. Alstom’s ETCS integration enhances these **rail** operations across Europe.

**Option 2 (Focus on Innovation):**

> New developments! ČD Cargo’s **Traxx Universal locomotive** fleet grows, while Alstom debuts a hydrogen-powered shunting **locomotive**.

**Option 3 (Focus on Expansion):**

> ČD Cargo’s **Traxx Universal locomotive** deployment continues, supporting European expansion. Modernization includes crucial **ETCS** integration for enhanced efficiency.

ČD Cargo & Alstom: ETCS, Traxx & European Rail Expansion

September 27, 2025 5:55 pm

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Introduction

ČD Cargo presented its 20th Traxx Universal multi-system locomotive, unit 388.020, at the National Railway Day event in Nymburk, Czech Republic, on September 25, 2025. This delivery is part of ČD Cargo’s ongoing procurement of 60 locomotives, designed to expand its operations in European rail markets.

Locomotive Delivery and ETCS Integration

The delivery of Traxx Universal locomotives began in 2021 and is projected to continue through 2026 and 2027. This year marked a milestone with the approval for regular use of the locomotive, incorporating updated software to support the European Train Control System (ETCS). Alstom is implementing this modification across all units within the current order, including the one unveiled in Nymburk.

Operational Capabilities and Design

The Traxx Universal locomotives are engineered for freight operations at speeds up to 160 km/h and have an anticipated operational lifespan of at least 30 years. The design incorporates a “last mile” module, allowing for independent movement for short-distance shunting or deliveries. Alstom states these locomotives are designed to meet higher performance demands and feature longer maintenance intervals, aimed at improving fleet availability and efficiency.

European Certifications and Route Expansion

Traxx Universal locomotives are certified for operation in the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia. Certain units are configured for additional routes in Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia, enabling their deployment across nine European countries.

Hydrogen-Powered Shunting Locomotive

Alstom recently completed the first run of a hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive, converted from diesel, in Salzgitter, Germany. This project is a collaborative effort involving VPS Verkehrsbetriebe Peine-Salzgitter, WTZ Roßlau, TU Braunschweig, and the Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films.

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Conclusion

ČD Cargo unveiled its 20th Traxx Universal multi-system locomotive in Nymburk, Czech Republic, as part of its ongoing procurement of 60 locomotives. Alstom has also completed the inaugural run of a hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive in Salzgitter, Germany.

Company Summary

ČD Cargo: ČD Cargo is involved in the procurement and operation of Traxx Universal locomotives, aiming to expand its freight operations across European rail markets.

Alstom: Alstom is the manufacturer of the Traxx Universal locomotives and is also involved in the development of hydrogen-powered shunting locomotives.

VPS Verkehrsbetriebe Peine-Salzgitter: VPS Verkehrsbetriebe Peine-Salzgitter is a participant in the collaboration for the hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive project.

WTZ Roßlau: WTZ Roßlau is a participant in the collaboration for the hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive project.

TU Braunschweig: TU Braunschweig is a participant in the collaboration for the hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive project.

Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films: The Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films is a participant in the collaboration for the hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive project.

Technology

European Train Control System (ETCS): The European Train Control System is a railway signaling system designed to enhance safety and efficiency in rail transport.

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