1949

Due to an ever-increasing volume of traffic on the Gotthard route for express and freight trains in the post-war years, the SBB began considering a new type of locomotive for this important link. In 1949, SBB placed an order for two prototypes with SLM, BBC, MFO, and SAAS. The locomotive type CC 6051, built by SLM and MFO and delivered to the SNCF in 1950, served as the model. In 1952/53, both prototypes Ae 6/6 11401 and 11402 with their two three-axle bogies and the self-supporting construction of the locomotive body were accepted by the SBB. Despite some teething problems, the machines met the specifications of the requirements document and were extensively tested on the Gotthard route. In 1954, an order for an additional 12 locomotives, Ae 6/6 11403 – 11414, was placed, and by 1966 a total of 120 of these aesthetically pleasing and powerful machines were commissioned. The locomotives, originally delivered in a green livery, were later painted red, and in 2006, 14 locomotives were repainted in the SBB Cargo look. On December 17, 2013, the service life of the Ae 6/6 with the SBB came to an end. Some locomotives were spared from the cutting torch and have been preserved for historical rides or as a monument to the world.  

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Latest update on the 5th of November 2023 at 14:19

Contributor(s): Tudor C.

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