Siemens Mobility launches hybrid locomotives for DB

March 17, 2024

Siemens Mobility has introduced a new generation of locomotives, the “Vectron Dual Mode light”, designed to enhance the efficiency and power of DB Cargo’s fleet.

This modern hybrid locomotive combines electric and diesel drive, offering adaptability in freight transportation. It can switch between electric and diesel operations, eliminating time-consuming shunting and maneuvering, and can be used flexibly, with or without overhead lines.

The Vectron Dual Mode light has been specifically optimized for DB Cargo’s operational requirements. It is several tons lighter than a conventional Vectron Dual Mode, enabling more efficient operations and providing access to branch lines and sidings with lower load capacities. This is particularly beneficial for single wagon loads, as the time to reclamp locomotives will be significantly reduced. The new generation of locomotives is also pre-equipped for future digital train operations.

DB Cargo has placed an initial order for 150 locomotives from Siemens Mobility. The use of these new dual-power locomotives is expected to save DB Cargo around 12 million liters of fuel and 25,000 tons of CO2 per year. The first locomotives will be deployed around Europe’s most modern marshaling yard in Halle (Saale) in Saxony-Anhalt and Saxony, where DB Cargo’s customers in the region will be the first to benefit. DB Cargo aims to equip approximately 70 percent of its diesel locomotives with innovative drives by 2030.