Source: wbb.rail-nation.com
Source: Yves Broncard - trix.de
BB 9200 Capitole
Vehicle type:
Registration country:
Railway companies:
1962
The BB 9200 Capitole is a celebrated high-speed
variant of the classic French BB 9200
electric locomotive series. This special sub-class was developed
and operated by the SNCF in the late 1960s to haul the
prestigious "Le Capitole" express between Paris and Toulouse at
speeds beyond 160 km/h, marking a major milestone in French
railroad history. 
Six locomotives from the BB 9200 series were modified or specifically built for high-speed service and branded the BB 9200 Capitole:
units 9278, 9281, 9282 & 9288 were converted from standard BB 9200 units and were limited to 200 km/h;
BB 9291 and BB 9292 were purpose-built for high-speed research and could reach up to 250 km/h, with higher power output than the standard BB 9200.
Known among railfans as the "BB rouges" due to their striking red-and-gray livery, they were the first SNCF locomotives designed for regular operation above 160 km/h. 
From 1967 to 1970, these locomotives hauled the "Le Capitole express" - one of France’s premier fast services of the era - contributing to the train’s reputation as the first in Western Europe regularly scheduled at 200 km/h.
Six locomotives from the BB 9200 series were modified or specifically built for high-speed service and branded the BB 9200 Capitole:
units 9278, 9281, 9282 & 9288 were converted from standard BB 9200 units and were limited to 200 km/h;
BB 9291 and BB 9292 were purpose-built for high-speed research and could reach up to 250 km/h, with higher power output than the standard BB 9200.
Known among railfans as the "BB rouges" due to their striking red-and-gray livery, they were the first SNCF locomotives designed for regular operation above 160 km/h. 
From 1967 to 1970, these locomotives hauled the "Le Capitole express" - one of France’s premier fast services of the era - contributing to the train’s reputation as the first in Western Europe regularly scheduled at 200 km/h.
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Latest update on the 6th of January 2026 at 10:00
Contributor(s): Tudor C.
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