Yellow Icon: CZ LOKO Delivers Custom EffiShunter 1000 to Subterra at Rail Business Days

Yellow, efficient, and ready to work — CZ LOKO’s latest EffiShunter 1000 made its grand debut at Rail Business Days 2025. With Subterra taking delivery of this custom-built locomotive, the Czech manufacturer is doubling down on export markets, new technologies, and zero-compromise reliability.

At the second day of Rail Business Days 2025, CZ LOKO officially handed over a unique yellow-painted EffiShunter 1000 locomotive to the company Subterra. The ceremonial transfer marked another milestone in CZ LOKO's growing export portfolio, while underlining its continued focus on innovation and efficiency.

The handover was led by CZ LOKO CEO Josef Gulyás and Sales Director Jan Kutálek. "Our goal is to make the locomotive as efficient as possible—hence the name EffiShunter," Gulyás stated. He pointed out the model’s high engine efficiency, low maintenance demands, and significant technological improvements over its first-generation predecessor launched in 2012. The key innovation, according to Gulyás, is the locomotive's interoperability: the second-generation EffiShunter is equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS), making it fully compliant with cross-border operations.

Gulyás further explained that the EffiShunter 1000 is primarily developed for export markets, with current deliveries reaching Slovakia, Hungary, Italy, Sweden, and Norway. "Export makes up 70% of production for the second generation of EffiShunter," he said. CZ LOKO is also actively working on the third-generation model, targeting expansion into Western markets, particularly Germany and Austria.

A Unique All-Yellow Livery for Subterra

When asked whether this particular unit featured any custom elements, CZ LOKO Sales Director Jan Kutálek pointed to its striking colour scheme: "The completely yellow livery is unique in the Czech Republic—no other customer has requested this before," he noted. Kutálek also praised the ongoing partnership with Subterra, which dates back to 2021, when the company ordered its first EffiShunter 1000. That unit was delivered in 2022.

Accepting the locomotive on behalf of Subterra were Jaroslav Čižinský, Production and Technical Director, and Radim Wrana, Director of Railway Mechanization Operations. Asked why Subterra opted to purchase new locomotives rather than modernising older models, Čižinský responded: "Technology is constantly advancing. I believe our train drivers would confirm that this machine offers an excellent driving experience. Therefore, it makes more sense to invest in new equipment rather than rebuild older units."

Subterra: A Perfect Fit for Our Operations

Subterra's operational leadership echoed these sentiments. "We've been running the first EffiShunter 1000 for three years now, and our drivers are very satisfied," said Wrana. "Minor issues have been addressed promptly under warranty, and overall, we are thrilled with the locomotive." He added: "For our needs, this machine is ideal—it has low fuel consumption and can pull heavy loads with ease."

Prior to the symbolic christening of the new locomotive and ceremonial key handover, CZ LOKO also presented Subterra with a souvenir certificate and a voucher for six months of free service, which will be provided by CZ LOKO's dedicated maintenance subsidiary CZ LOKO Services. The ceremony concluded with Subterra’s train driver successfully starting up the freshly delivered locomotive.

Source: RAILTARGET