Akiem, a prominent player in the European locomotive and passenger train leasing sector, has placed a firm order with Siemens Mobility for 10 Vectron Dual Mode locomotives. This purchase includes an option for an additional 40 locomotives and is part of a framework agreement initiated in August 2021 for the supply of locomotives and related services. The first batch is expected to be delivered by the fourth quarter of 2026. Since 2021, Akiem has ordered 100 Vectron locomotives from Siemens Mobility in various batches.
Steffen Bobsien, Vice President Locomotives & Coaches at Siemens Mobility GmbH, expressed satisfaction with the continued partnership: “We are delighted that Akiem has again decided for Siemens Mobility and ordered 50 more Vectron locomotives to their fleet.” He highlighted the modular design of the Vectron as a key contributor to rail services on both electrified and non-electrified lines.
Fabien Rochefort, CEO of Akiem, commented on the significance of the new addition: "Vectron Dual Mode is today the most reliable and cost-effective solution for railway operators that intend to step away from pure diesel traction." He emphasized Akiem's commitment to enhancing rail freight and passenger transport while contributing to a greener rail sector through continuous investment in their locomotive portfolio.
The newly ordered locomotives can deliver up to 2.4 megawatts in electric mode and 2 megawatts in diesel mode, enabling them to perform freight operations at speeds up to 160 km/h. They will primarily operate in Germany and Austria but have potential deployment plans across other European countries including Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria. The Vectron Dual Mode allows seamless transition between electric and diesel modes without needing a change of locomotives.
Siemens Mobility reports having sold over 2,700 Vectron units to more than 100 customers. These units have collectively traveled over one billion kilometers in service across Europe.