The locomotive, marked with a special decal to highlight the partnership, is part of a broader order of 60 units that are central to the freight operator’s expansion in European markets.
Deliveries of the fleet began in 2021 and will continue through 2027. A key development this year has been the approval of the locomotives with an updated European Train Control System (ETCS) software, allowing them to operate in regular service with the latest safety standards. The modification is being progressively applied across the fleet, including the newly presented unit.
"Traxx Universal multi-system locomotives are central to the company’s international expansion. So far, they have covered more than 8 million kilometres and have transported millions of tonnes of goods under the ČD Cargo licence in Germany," said Tomáš Tóth, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ČD Cargo. He added that the ETCS certification was achieved with support from Alstom teams in several countries, making the locomotives 'fully interoperable'.
Dan Kurucz, Alstom’s Country Managing Director in the Czech Republic, noted the importance of the collaboration: "Smooth cross-border operation is extremely important for freight carriers. Thanks to Alstom’s locomotives, Czech operators can ensure efficient goods transportation across Europe."
The Traxx Universal locomotives are authorised for use in the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, with part of the fleet also certified for Slovenia, Croatia and Serbia. With a maximum speed of 160 km/h, an expected service life of at least 30 years and optional 'last mile' capability, the locomotives are designed to increase operational flexibility and efficiency in cross-border freight.
📊 Traxx Universal at a glance
- 🚂 Fleet size: 60 locomotives ordered by ČD Cargo
- ✅ Delivered so far: 20 (since 2021)
- 🌍 Operating reach: Up to 9 European countries (incl. CZ, DE, AT, PL, HU, SK, plus SI, HR, RS)
- ⚡ Top speed: 160 km/h in freight service
- 🛡 Safety: Approved with ETCS for regular operation
- 🔋 Flexibility: “Last mile” module option for independent traction
- 🕑 Service life: Designed for at least 30 years
- 📏 Mileage: Already more than 8 million km covered
