Think Railways

The Czech Rail Authority has granted final and full authorization for the Vectron multi-system and AC versions to operate on all sections of the Czech network without any restrictions. As well, Turkish State Railways (TCDD) has authorized the multi-system version of the Vectron locomotive. The authorization covers the entire Vectron family, paving the way for the Vectron’s operation in Turkey.

As part of the authorization tests, a Vectron equipped with Turkish and European train control system (ETCS) not only operated on conventional routes, but was also tested and used in service on the high-speed rail line between Istanbul and Ankara operating at speeds up to 200 kilometers an hour. The Vectron mastered all the commercial test operations as well as heavy-duty loads. The tests covered a total of more than 25,000 kilometers.

The test runs were conducted under the permanent supervision of TCDD and in part carried out by specially trained TCDD locomotive drivers. The Vectron was given the series designation E8700, in which the horsepower rating translates roughly to a power output of 6,400 kilowatts.