The Vectron Dual Mode locomotive developed by Siemens Mobility has been authorized for cross-border operation between Germany and Austria. Following approval in Germany, Austria has now become the second country to grant full authorization for this dual-mode locomotive type.
The first two locomotives approved for operation in both countries have been handed over to Austrian rail operator Stern & Hafferl Verkehr. All vehicles are manufactured at Siemens Mobility’s Munich-Allach plant and are equipped with Siemens Trainguard Basic onboard units, supporting ETCS Baseline 3.6.
The authorization allows the Vectron Dual Mode to operate seamlessly across electrified and non-electrified sections without the need for locomotive changes. This capability is particularly relevant for cross-border freight and regional services where infrastructure electrification remains incomplete, enabling more efficient operations and reducing dwell times at network boundaries.
Dual-mode locomotives combine electric traction under overhead lines with diesel operation on non-electrified routes, allowing locally emission-free running where catenary is available while maintaining operational flexibility on last-mile sections. This configuration is increasingly seen as a transitional solution in markets with mixed infrastructure standards.
The approval in Germany and Austria positions the Vectron Dual Mode for broader deployment on Central European corridors, where interoperability, ETCS deployment and flexible traction solutions are becoming increasingly important for both freight and passenger operators.
Vectron Dual Mode – Key Technical Specifications
- Platform: Siemens Vectron
- Traction: Dual mode (electric + diesel)
- Track gauge: 1,435 mm
- Service weight: 90 tonnes
- Electrical system: 15 kV AC
- Power output (electric mode): up to 2,400 kW
- Power output (diesel mode): up to 2,000 kW
- Maximum speed: 160 km/h
- Diesel tank capacity: 2,600 litres
- Train power supply: available
- Signalling: Siemens Trainguard Basic with ETCS Baseline 3.6
- Additional option: multi-system version for 15 kV / 25 kV AC
