The new Traxx Atlas model is to be sent for testing in the Czechia, its manufacturer, Alstom has confirmed.
The Traxx model has been converted and installed with the Atlas signalling system which will enable the locomotive to operate on extended corridors with Baseline 3, the latest generation of the European Train Control System (ECTS).
During testing, the locomotive will undergo a two-month period of testing which will examine the train protection and connected systems along with other tests including odometry and antenna interference tests. If these tests are successful, Atlas technology will then be rolled out across other locomotive variants and undergo similar tests.
This will include both legacy and new-build models that are built at the company’s manufacturing site in Kassel, Germany. Alongside fitting the new Atlas system, Alstom are also responsible for the conversion works within the locomotive themselves which will mean installing the new cubicle within the vehicle’s machine room alongside all of the peripheral adaptations.
The Traxx model is freight and passenger locomotive which has a 4-axle platform can operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h for both passenger and freight variants. It is used extensively across Europe by operators including in countries such as Italy, Sweden, Poland and The Netherlands.
“Upgrading Alstom’s Traxx locomotives to our latest Atlas signalling system will help us strengthen our position in the very competitive market for locomotives, while offering our customers significant benefits, including the possibility to operate more reliably and seamlessly across Europe under ETCS Baseline 3” said Frank Schleier, vice-president Locomotives Platform, Alstom.
Image Credit: Alstom
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