Siemens shows Vectron MS: The future of European freight transport!

Siemens shows Vectron MS: The future of European freight transport!

What drives the European rail transport industry? The new Vectron MS locomotive, which Siemens presented at the Transport Logistic trade fair in Munich, is currently causing a stir. This locomotive is intended to significantly facilitate cross-border rail traffic in Europe and is referred to as the “Ferrari of freight transport”. With an impressive output of 8,700 hp, the Vectron MS is aimed at the needs of modern transport and represents a significant innovation in freight transport. Mercury reports that the locomotive has been built in various variants since 2010 and can now be used in several countries, including Germany, Austria and Italy.

With a weight of 90 tons and the ability to operate with both alternating and direct current, the Vectron MS enables journeys without changing locomotives on the Brenner, one of the most important freight routes across the Alps. Transport Minister Christian Bernreiter highlighted the importance of the locomotive in connection with the construction of the Brenner Base Tunnel, which is expected to go into operation in 2032. However, he also emphasized the need to take the interests of local residents into account, as previous plans have always met with resistance.

Sustainable transport across the Alps

Siemens is not only handing over one locomotive, but several. A total of six Vectron MS locomotives will be delivered to RTC S.p.A. and InRail S.p.A. delivered, like Siemens communicates. These locomotives are specifically designed for use on the Italian corridor over the Brenner Pass and are intended to further promote cross-border traffic. The EU also has big plans: around 700 million euros in funding has been promised for the Brenner Base Tunnel, making it a European showcase project.

The Brenner Base Tunnel is part of the Scan-Med corridor, which plays a central role in the trans-European transport networks. The EU is funding 50 percent of the project's planning, exploration and construction costs, underlining the importance of the initiative. With a total budget of around 10.5 billion euros and an already known 1.6 billion euros in co-financing, the commitment to sustainable transport in Europe is demonstrated. Tunnel Online highlights that EU funds also support the construction of infrastructure that improves traffic flow across the Alps.

A look into the future of locomotives

Siemens has not only sent the Vectron MS into the race, but is also presenting an electric locomotive that can temporarily run without overhead lines because it has batteries. This innovative technology allows the locomotive to be charged while traveling on routes with overhead lines. To date, two of these locomotives have already been sold and demand may increase further in the near future. It is estimated that around 3,500 diesel locomotives are in use in Europe and will now be gradually replaced by these more efficient models.

The Vectron MS locomotive is not only a symbol of technological progress, but also stands for a united Europe. The realization that freight transport must function across borders is more important today than ever.