Class / BR 248.5 | TrainsDepot.org

Class / BR 248.5

Also known as:

Vectron Dual Mode

UIC / EVN numbering:

90 80 2248

Vehicle type:

Diesel locomotive

Registration country:

Germany

Railway companies:

DB - Deutsche Bahn

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Era:

Built by:

Siemens

Gauge:

Standard gauge (1'435 mm)

Tare weight (t):

90 t

Power output (x'xxx kW / x'xxx hp):

2'400 kW*
*electric operations
2'030 kW*
*diesel operations

Maximum speed (km/h):

160 km/h

Other equipments (video surveillance / internal passenger information system):

PZB and ETCS, as well as the WTB-ÖBB train bus system (including wagon communication)

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Vehicle's history

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2022

September 2

After a "Voluntary ex-ante transparency notice" published in August, Deutsche Bahn (DB) announces a "Contract award notice", with Siemens being selected as the winner, for the procurement of 21x Vectron Dual Mode locomotives. These units are to be used by DB Fernverkehr to pull ICE-L trains to Westerland (Sylt) and Oberstdorf end stations with no overhead wires. But it also needs them as rescue locomotives for high-speed trains, e.g., for use on the Wendlingen-Ulm high-speed line. In the end, it needs a locomotive with "an unrestricted operational capability on the German railway network".

DB's decision to proceed with the Siemens Vectron was influenced by delays and failures in the delivery of diesel locomotives from another manufacturer, which the company learned about only 2 months earlier. The urgency surrounding the order stems from the need for the locomotives by 2026, authorized and equipped with the necessary systems for European Train Control System (ETCS) compliance, an impossible deadline for a completely new tender.

Thus, the company decided to use the frame contract it closed for DB Cargo and DB Bahnbau for the procurement of Vectron Dual Mode Light locomotives (registered as Class 249) and places a call-off order.

Despite this, the locomotives specified in this order differ significantly from the previously delivered Vectron Dual Mode Light locomotives that have 2.0 MW electric and 1.1 MW diesel capabilities, alongside a maximum speed of 120 km/h. The new locomotives will operate at 2.4 MW electric and 2.0 MW diesel with a maximum speed of 160 km/h. Additionally, these units will need advanced energy supply systems for passenger trains and interconnectivity with other systems, such as the ÖBB WTB bus.

Sources: https://railcolornews.com/2022/09/22/de-emergency-solution-for-db-fernverkehr-vectron-dual-mode-for-ice-l-and-rescue-services/

2024

September

In May 2023, a Siemens Vectron Dual Mode locomotive with registration number "248 500" is observed for the first time while en route to Czechia. It turned out to be previously registered "248 020" locomotive, which has undergone refitting and renumbering. After spending time at the VUZ Velim test centre in Czechia (May - June 2023), the locomotive came to Austria, where it was seen with another new product of Siemens: Nightjet - Viaggio Next Level - .

In September 2024, it was precisely that machine on display during Innotrans 2024!

The distinguishing feature of the "248 500" locomotive compared to other locomotives in Class 248 is its capability for train heating. This modification aligns with future operational requirements of DB Fernverkehr, enabling the locomotive to generate sufficient power for climate control in passenger coaches and serves as the prototype for the series.

But it will not become part of it, though. Notably, the forthcoming DB Fernverkehr locomotives will lack remote control functionality, which differentiates them from unit "248 500". Additionally, the future locomotives will incorporate different software and destination displays. The first locomotive officially designated for DB operation will be numbered "248 501".

The locomotive arrived at InnoTrans in the standard Siemens design: white, grey frame, Siemens logos, "Vectron" logo and the "Dual Mode" markings, including a green leaf. However, overnight, the distinctive red stripe and DB logo characteristic of the IC livery were applied.

Additionally, a closer look at the country authorizations notice reveals promising details. The locomotive not only displays authorization for Germany (currently the only country where the Vectron Dual Mode is certified), but also for Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary.

Sources: https://railcolornews.com/2024/09/29/locomotive-siemens-248-500-changed-colors-during-innotrans-2024-why/

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