Siemens Mobility and Akiem Launch Battery Vectron with 80-Locomotive Deal

Siemens Mobility and Akiem are expanding their partnership with a new locomotive deal focused on low-emission rail operations. The agreement covers up to 80 Vectron locomotives, including a new battery-powered variant designed for routes without full electrification.

Siemens Mobility and Akiem have signed a framework agreement for the purchase of 80 Vectron locomotives, with a firm order of 50 and an option for 30 additional units. The deal includes the launch of the new Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives.

With this new locomotive, Siemens Mobility is further developing its proven Vectron Dual Mode platform and expanding the Vectron family with a battery-based solution. The locomotives can operate both under overhead line power and on non-electrified sections using traction batteries. The first deliveries are scheduled for 2029–2030, with Akiem acting as the launch customer.

The agreement builds on the long-standing partnership between the two companies. Since 2021, Akiem has already placed several firm orders with Siemens Mobility for a total of 120 Vectron and Vectron Dual Mode locomotives. The new battery-based version supports rail decarbonisation by enabling operations on routes without end-to-end electrification.

"Akiem’s decision is a strong vote of confidence in our technology, and we greatly value that trust," said Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock, Siemens Mobility. "With the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery, we are taking a major development step based on the proven Vectron platform, adding a new fully electric member to the Vectron family."

"For customers, this means greater operational flexibility on routes where electrification is not continuous, while supporting the transition to more sustainable rail operations," he added.

"Akiem and Siemens’ teams shared a common vision that Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery will meet the vast majority of our customer needs when operating on non-electrified lines," said Fabien Rochefort, CEO Akiem. "We are delighted to extend our Vectron portfolio while innovating for the benefit of our customers across Europe."

Battery-Based Dual Mode Technology

The new Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery is built on the existing Dual Mode platform and replaces the diesel engine with a modular traction battery system. This allows the locomotive to operate under overhead lines as well as on non-electrified routes.

It is designed with flexible battery configurations of up to more than 2 MWh and can deliver up to 2,400 kW to the wheels in both battery mode and when operating under AC overhead line power. The locomotive is also designed for speeds of up to 160 km/h, with a tractive effort of 300 kN and a weight of around 90 tonnes.

Expanding Alternative Traction Solutions

Siemens Mobility continues to develop alternative traction technologies as part of its decarbonisation strategy. This includes battery and hybrid solutions based on the Vectron platform, as well as regional trains such as the Mireo Plus B (battery) and Mireo Plus H (hydrogen).

By expanding its portfolio, the company aims to provide operators with more options for climate-friendly rail services, particularly on routes where full electrification is not yet in place.

Source: Siemens Mobility Press Release