Stadler and KiwiRail, the national railway operator of New Zealand, have expanded their partnership with two new locomotive contracts, bolstering Stadler’s presence in the country. The first contract involves the delivery of nine mainline locomotives equipped with ETCS for operation on the North Island, while the second agreement includes the supply of 24 hybrid battery-diesel yard shunt locomotives.

Stadler is currently manufacturing 57 DM-class narrow gauge locomotives for KiwiRail, primarily for mainline services on the South Island rail network. Under the new agreement, an additional nine DM-class locomotives will be equipped with ETCS technology for the North Island rail network. Additionally, ten Class DM locomotives from the previous order will be retrofitted with ETCS, bringing the total to 19.

The hybrid battery-diesel yard shunt locomotives, featuring a central cab and a maximum axle load of 16 tonnes, will significantly reduce carbon emissions in KiwiRail’s shunting operations. These locomotives will operate primarily as zero-emission vehicles, contributing to a more sustainable rail service.

Iñigo Parra, executive vice president Stadler division Spain, expressed pride in the collaboration, highlighting Stadler’s commitment to green drive technologies. KiwiRail chief customer and growth officer Adele Wilson emphasised the importance of these locomotives in enhancing service reliability and decarbonising rail operations.

Stadler’s mainline locomotives boast high fuel efficiency and low emissions, powered by a low-emission diesel engine compliant with the latest European standards. The narrow gauge and narrow body locomotives are customised to meet KiwiRail’s requirements, offering optimal visibility and a comfortable working environment for drivers.

The hybrid yard shunt locomotives combine high performance with environmental-friendly hybrid traction, featuring a remote control System for enhanced versatility. Equipped with an automatic engine start-stop system and remote diagnostic capabilities, these locomotives represent an innovative solution for sustainable shunting operations.

For more information visit www.stadlerrail.com

27th February 2024