FS Logistix has placed an order for eight Stadler EUROLIGHT Dual bi-mode locomotives for its subsidiary Mercitalia Shunting & Terminal, marking another significant investment in the modernisation of Italy’s rail freight sector.
The new locomotives will help improve operational efficiency, flexibility and sustainability across the Italian rail network, while supporting FS Logistix’s wider strategy to enhance rail freight services and strengthen the role of rail within a more integrated European logistics system.
Designed specifically for the Italian market, the EUROLIGHT Dual combines 3 kV DC electric traction with a Stage V diesel engine, allowing seamless operation on both electrified and non-electrified routes without the need for locomotive changes. This capability enables operators to improve service continuity, reduce operational complexity and increase efficiency.
The lightweight Bo'Bo' locomotive has been engineered to meet the specific requirements of the Italian railway network. With an axle load of just 20 tonnes, it is suitable for use on both major corridors and secondary lines. In electric mode, the locomotive delivers up to 3 MW of power and offers a starting tractive effort of 330 kN.
Safety and network compatibility are ensured through the integration of ETCS B3R2, SCMT and SSC systems, enabling the locomotives to operate seamlessly across Italy’s national rail infrastructure.
Locomotives Support Sustainability Goals
A key advantage of the EUROLIGHT Dual platform is its environmental performance. The locomotives can operate under electric power wherever overhead line equipment is available, helping to reduce fuel consumption, carbon emissions and noise levels.
The addition of regenerative braking technology further enhances efficiency by returning energy to the overhead network during operation.
The order forms part of FS Logistix’s broader transformation programme, which is focused on creating a more customer-focused, sustainable and integrated logistics offering across Italy and Europe.
A Locomotive Tailored to the Italian Market
"We are delighted that FS Logistix and Mercitalia Shunting & Terminal have selected the EUROLIGHT Dual for their operations,"
said Iñigo Parra, Executive Vice President Division Spain at Stadler.
"The locomotive was designed to meet the specific requirements of the Italian market, combining flexibility, efficiency and sustainability in a single platform. This new order demonstrates the value that bi-mode technology brings to operators seeking to maximise operational performance while reducing their environmental footprint."
€1 Billion Investment in Fleet Modernisation
The locomotive acquisition sits within a much larger investment programme being delivered by FS Logistix as it seeks to expand its fleet of modern rail freight assets.
"Renewing our fleet means investing in the future of rail freight and strengthening its role within a more competitive and sustainable logistics system," said Sabrina De Filippis, CEO of FS Logistix.
"The acquisition of eight EUROLIGHT Dual locomotives is part of an overall investment programme of approximately EUR 1 billion and will expand our availability of modern, efficient and flexible assets across the Italian network. Through these investments, we also aim to reduce the environmental footprint of logistics operations and make rail and intermodal transport increasingly competitive alternatives to road transport."
Driving Operational Efficiency
Livio Ravera, CEO and General Manager of Mercitalia Shunting & Terminal, highlighted the practical benefits that the new fleet will bring to daily freight operations.
"Bi-mode technology will allow to use the same locomotive on electrified lines and on sections without overhead lines, avoiding locomotive changes and simplifying operations. This will improve service continuity, efficiency and reliability while reducing environmental impact," he said.
Mercitalia Shunting & Terminal is one of Italy’s leading providers of railway shunting services at ports, terminals and stations. The company operates a fleet of more than 200 locomotives and also provides rolling stock leasing services to support market demand and the wider FS Group.
The latest order further strengthens the position of Stadler’s EUROLIGHT Dual platform in Italy and underlines the growing importance of bi-mode traction technology as operators seek to balance operational performance with decarbonisation objectives.
Image credit: Stadler
