photo: Wikimedia Commons / Public domain / CC BY-SA 4.0/Vossloh DE 18 locomotive
Northrail is stepping up its game in Sweden and Norway with a new purchase of low-emission locomotives, aiming to meet the growing demand for sustainable and efficient rail transport in the region.
Northrail GmbH has announced the acquisition of ten ETCS-equipped DE 18 Stage V locomotives from Vossloh Rolling Stock GmbH as part of its ongoing expansion in Sweden and Norway, according to Northrail's press release. The first locomotives are set to be delivered in the second half of 2025.
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Northrai's Commitment to Sustainability and Efficiency
The DE 18 locomotives are designed with a Stage V engine, offering enhanced fuel efficiency and significantly reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Equipped with advanced features such as a start-stop function and the ability to use Hydrogenated Vegetable Oils (HVO)—a sustainable fuel—these locomotives can achieve up to 50% savings in GHG emissions compared to traditional diesel engines. Operators replacing outdated shunting assets with these DE 18 locomotives will be able to cut GHG emissions by up to 40%, aligning with Europe’s ambitious green transport goals, as reported by Railway Supply.
This acquisition also marks Northrail’s first entry into the Scandinavian market, with the DE 18 locomotives approved for use in both Sweden and Norway. Michael Trentzsch, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Commercial Officer of Northrail pointed out the strategic importance of this purchase: "This acquisition represents another milestone in our internationalization strategy and opens up new opportunities for us in the very attractive Scandinavian market." He also noted the growing demand in Sweden and Norway for modern, low-emission locomotives, particularly in light of the region’s commitment to sustainable mobility, according to the press release from the company.
State-of-the-Art Technology for a Sustainable Future with Northrail
Vossloh reports that the DE 18 locomotives are equipped with the ETCS L2 (BL3 R2) and STM ATC-2 signaling systems, allowing for seamless integration into both Sweden’s and Norway’s rail networks. With an engine output of 1,800 kW, the locomotives are ideal for heavy shunting and mainline services. The energy-efficient engines contribute to improved operational economics and maintenance savings, further enhancing the cost-effectiveness of rail operations. The DE 18 locomotives’ strong traction performance and reliable ease of use are expected to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly rail transport in the region, according to RailFreight.
Henrik Egeter, Managing Director of Vossloh Rolling Stock GmbH, expressed his satisfaction with the deal, saying, "Northrail's move underlines not only their confidence in our technology but also the importance of sustainable and efficient solutions for the rail industry in Scandinavia. That is why we are equipping the DE 18 locomotive with a climate-focused performance package that impresses with its strong traction performance and reliable ease of use."
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Camille Brunel, Partner of RIVE Private Investment, also commented on the funding partnership, noting that RIVE Tangible Assets Income Fund, managed by RIVE Private Investment, provided the necessary financing. "Bringing such innovative locomotives as the DE 18 to the Swedish and Norwegian markets supports the decarbonization of land transportation and improves rail efficiency. We are delighted to be contributing to these efforts by providing financing via the RIVE Tangible Assets Income Fund," said Brunel.
Source: Northrail; Vossloh; Railway Supply; RailFreight