Alstom unveils the design of cutting-edge Traxx electric locomotive for Romania’s ARF and launches dynamic testing phase

The first locomotive has arrived in Romania and is currently undergoing a comprehensive dynamic testing program at the Faurei Testing Centre in August ; this will be followed by the testing program in Germany on TSI-certified lines. 

The locomotive currently appears in a temporary blue livery, applied to protect the surface during testing. When the testing program is completed, final visual dark red coating will be implemented. 

“We are proud to see the first Traxx Universal locomotive for ARF entering testing on schedule. This is a significant step forward in our commitment to delivering high-performance, sustainable mobility solutions for Romania,” said Gabriel Stanciu, Managing Director Alstom Romania, Bulgaria and Moldova. “The new locomotives will bring a major boost to the country’s sustainable rail transport capabilities, both in terms of speed and reliability.”

Locomotives to improve mobility in Romania

The four-axle electric locomotives will have a maximum speed of 200 km/h and will be able to tow up to 16 passenger cars. They will be equipped with Alstom’s state-of-the-art onboard ERTMS system for optimal efficiency and high levels of safety and security, while ensuring full interoperability. The locomotives are designed to improve mobility within and between the Romania’s major cities. The contract for 16 Traxx locomotives includes 20-year maintenance and repair services, can be extended by a further 20 years by concluding an additional agreement. Deliveries will start in the first half of 2026.

Traxx locomotives have been homologated in 20 countries, covering a total annual distance of more than 300 million kilometres, with more than 3,000 units sold since the year 2000. 

Alstom in Romania

Alstom has maintained a strong presence in Romania for over three decades, establishing itself as a leader in railway electrification and signalling solutions. The company plays a key role in delivering electrification and signalling projects along the Rhine-Danube railway corridor and in the Cluj region, where it is also part of the consortium building the country’s second metro system, located in Cluj Napoca.

The first CBTC urban signalling solution in the country is under implementation by Alstom on Bucharest’s metro Line 5, to which Alstom also supplies Metropolis trains. Additionally, Alstom has provided maintenance services for the Bucharest metro fleet for over 20 years, with a current contract extending until 2036. The company’s rolling stock contracts include supplying electric trains for ARF, accompanied by comprehensive maintenance services.

Alstom™, Traxx™, Traxx Universal™ and Metropolis™ are protected trademarks of the Alstom Group.