Large Modula order from RAILPOOL

On 20 October 2023 Vossloh Rolling Stock and RAILPOOL have signed several contracts for the delivery of 45 Modula locomotives in two versions with the option to purchase a further 142. 

RAILPOOL has one of the most extensive and modern fleets for European cross-border transport comprising around 500 electric mainline locomotives. As an entry into the shunting locomotive market and in order to achieve its growth targets in the German market, the München-based company has opted for the Modula BDD in the 960 kW hybrid version (battery plus two 480 kW diesel engines, with 750 kW of power at the wheel) and the Modula EDD electro-diesel (rated at 2,500 kW when using catenary, and having two 480 kW diesel engines).

The delivery of the firm order begins in mid-2026 and runs until the end of 2027. The optional locomotive orders will be filled by mid-2029, and both locomotive versions will also be available with German-Dutch approvals for use. VRS envisages that authorisation of Modula by ERA will be awarded mid-2025.

Torsten Lehnert, RAILPOOL CEO, says: "Around 60 % of the locomotives in Europe are over 30 years old and at the end of their product life cycles. Shunting locomotives, in fact, are on average over 40 years old. By purchasing the Modula locomotives, we aim to offer our customers the attractive prospect of being able to switch easily to leasing new, sustainable and energy-efficient vehicles and providing their operations personnel with a modern working environment while still enjoying the usual RAILPOOL service quality. Both Modula versions can run on synthetic fuels and therefore meet the highest environmental standards. Their innovative vehicle designs allow the best possible use of the track infrastructure, and they’re also perfectly designed for both heavy shunting work and freight transport."

RAILPOOL will be making the new locomotives available to lease on the German market in conjunction with its proven full-service model. In addition to securing the provision of spare parts, the long-term partnership concluded between RAILPOOL and Vossloh Rolling Stock also covers the further development of technical features and maintenance based on the experience gained during the Modula fleet’s operations.