New locomotive deals: KiwiRail enhances rail network with Stadler contracts

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

KiwiRail, the rail operator in New Zealand, has entered into two agreements with Stadler. The first contract involves the procurement of nine mainline locomotives, while the second entails the acquisition of a new fleet comprising 24 hybrid battery-diesel yard shunt locomotives.

The nine DM Class locomotives extend KiwiRail’s previous order of 57 vehicles worth $263 million in 2021, designated for the South Island rail network. The latest locomotives, equipped with European Train Control System (ETCS) technology, are intended for use on the North Island.

Furthermore, the final batch of 10 locomotives from the 2021 order will also be retrofitted with ETCS technology. This retrofitting ensures seamless integration into the North Island rail network and the Auckland Metro area, which operates on ETCS level 1 signalling.

Adele Wilson, KiwiRail chief customer and growth officer, said: “New mainline locomotives and shunts mean less maintenance time in the depots and more time on the track reliably serving our customers.” 

KiwiRail’s acquisition of 24 shunt locomotives is tailored to cater to all shunting areas under its jurisdiction. These locomotives will be accompanied by spare parts, specialized tools, and technical support services.

With a partial reliance on battery power, these locomotives are engineered to primarily operate as zero-emission vehicles, aligning with KiwiRail’s decarbonization objectives targeting net zero emissions by 2050. They are also designed to enable operations from outside the cabin, enhancing safety within the shunting yard.

Likewise, the DM Class locomotives are configured to utilize HVO biofuels, capable of slashing CO2 equivalent emissions by over 80% throughout the supply chain.

These recent procurements are part of KiwiRail’s broader NZ$1.7 billion ($1 billion) investment in rolling stock. This investment aims to bolster passenger services while facilitating greater access to low-emission transportation for freight services.

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