New green locomotive for loading trains onto ferries at the Strait of Messina.

Last Updated: May 22, 2024

Stretto di Messina, una nuova locomotiva green per l'imbarco dei treni sui traghetti

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Mercitalia Shunting & Terminal, a company of the FS Group’s Logistics Pole, is expanding its fleet with the purchase of 8 locomotives for rail shunting and rescue operations. The De 18 locomotives, produced by Vossloh Rolling Stock, are already used by Rete Ferroviaria Italiana, leading company of the FS Infrastructures Pole, for loading and unloading services of railway convoys from ferry boats in the Strait of Messina and by the Operational Infrastructures Directions of Naples and Turin for maintenance operations.

The purchase of locomotives, including the maintenance service provided by Imateq Italia, is part of the Logistics Pole’s investment plan to modernize and renew its fleet, with particular attention to sustainability and environmental protection.

Following the green approach, the De 18 locomotive manufactured by Vossloh Rolling Stock reduces emissions, decreases fuel consumption and, when powered by renewable fuels such as Hvo and the future PtX, minimizes CO2 emissions up to 95% while maintaining the same performance.

Measuring about 17 meters in length, 4 meters in height, and 3 meters in width, the DE 18 chosen by Mercitalia Shunting & Terminal are equipped with power optimization systems based on actual needs. These engines therefore allow to extend the environmental sustainability benefits of rail freight transport even where the line is not electrified.

All locomotives are equipped with Etcs, Scmt, and Ssc, specific technological systems for all Italian railway lines, ensuring Operators maximum flexibility. The locomotives Yasmina, Alessia, Barbara, Franca, and Sylvana operate in the Strait of Messina, while Arya, Nadia, and Lucia are destined for maintenance operations.