DB Cargo has signed a cooperation agreement with Toshiba, one of the Asian suppliers of rail vehicle technology. The agreement involves a feasibility study for the joint development and subsequent purchase of an initial 100 new hybrid locomotives by DB Cargo. The hybrid vehicles will be used in regional transport operations and, in addition to a significant reduction in diesel consumption and lower maintenance costs, will raise the average fleet availability.
The first test vehicles are expected to be available by the end of 2019. The partners agreed not to disclose the purchase price.
DB Cargo’s fleet of switching locomotives has an average age of 40 years, which means they will soon have reached their maximum service life. DB Cargo has therefore opted for innovative hybrid technology at an early stage to cover its replacement requirements and at the same time to accumulate its own expertise in maintenance and repair.
As part of its asset management activities, the consortium has thus also created the first market for used rolling stock which will enable it to lease locomotive capacities flexibly and at short notice. Deutsche Bahn will remain responsible for maintenance of the locomotives.
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