RAILPOOL, the rail vehicle rental company and Vossloh Rolling Stock have signed several contracts for the delivery of 45 Modula locomotives in two versions, with the option to purchase a further 142 locomotives.
This order marks RAILPOOL's entry into the shunting locomotive market and its commitment to expanding its fleet in the German market.
The Modula locomotive is a versatile and sustainable traction solution that can be used for both heavy shunting work and freight transportation. It is available in two versions: a 1000 kW hybrid (dual engine plus battery – BDD) and a 2.5 MW electro-diesel (EDD). Both versions can run on synthetic fuels and meet the highest environmental standards.
“Around 60 percent of the locomotives in Europe are over 30 years old and at the end of their product life cycles,” said Torsten Lehnert, CEO of RAILPOOL.
“By purchasing the Modula locomotives, we aim to offer our customers the attractive prospect of being able to switch easily to leasing new, sustainable and energy-efficient vehicles and providing their operations personnel with a modern working environment while still enjoying the usual RAILPOOL service quality.
“Both Modula versions can run on synthetic fuels and therefore meet the highest environmental standards. Their innovative vehicle designs allow the best possible use of the track infrastructure, and they’re also perfectly designed for both heavy shunting work and freight transport."
“We are delighted to partner with RAILPOOL on this exciting new order,” said Dr. Bernd Hoppe, executive director and general manager of Vossloh Rolling Stock. "Our shared values unite us. The desire to assure the best availability coupled with the responsibility of making a significant contribution to the shift in modes of transport and make freight transport climate-neutral over the long term form the basis of trust on which our sustainable collaboration is built."
The Modula locomotive features a number of features that make it ideal for heavy-duty shunting and freight applications. It has a high number of non-variable parts, which reduces maintenance costs and extends the locomotive's lifespan. The Modula also features a redesigned driver's console that is both ergonomic and easy to use.
RAILPOOL will make the new Modula locomotives available to lease on the German market and will operate a full service programme for the locomotive which includes a network of workshops and a virtual back office comprising Fleet Management, Engineering and the supplier.
Photo Credit: RAILPOOL
