Traxx locomotives with Atlas are coming
A new important step has been taken in the integration of the Atlas signalling system onboard Alstom’s Traxx locomotive platform.
On 17 May, the first Traxx locomotive with an Atlas signalling system onboard left Alstom’s locomotive manufacturing site in Kassel, Germany.
The newly-converted locomotive was sent to the test ring in Velim, Czech Republic, where it will undergo an intensive two-month programme of testing, examining the train protection and other systems, along with functional, odometry and antenna interference tests. This locomotive is the first of many locomotive variants that will be equipped with Atlas and undergo tests.
“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.”
After testing and authorisation, the upgrade works will be rolled-out to both legacy and new-build Traxx products, converting fleets from various customers to the Atlas signalling system.
The Atlas signalling system enables Traxx locomotives to operate on extended corridors with the latest generation, Baseline 3, of the European Train Control System (ETCS).
Alstom is responsible for the conversion works which include installing the new cubicle within the vehicle’s machine room, as well as implementing all necessary peripheral adaptations.
“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.
