Romania: Alstom Reveals Traxx Universal Locomotive for ARF

Alstom has revealed the design of its new Traxx Universal electric locomotive, which has been developed and produced for the Romanian Railway Reform Authority (ARF).

The unit’s reveal marks a key milestone in the delivery of a contract signed in 2024, which includes 16 locomotives and 20 years of maintenance & repair services, with an option to secure a further 20 years if agreed.

Equipped with Alstom’s onboard ERTMS system; the four-axle locomotives will feature a top speed of 200 km/h and will be capable of towing up to 16 passenger cars.

The first locomotive is now undergoing a full testing programme at the Faurei Testing Centre in Romania, with further tests in Germany set to begin in Germany on TSI-certified lines once complete.

Currently, the locomotive is wrapped in blue livery, which will be replaced by a dark red coating once the testing programme is completed.

Gabriel Stanciu, Managing Director Alstom Romania, Bulgaria and Moldova, said:

We are proud to see the first Traxx Universal locomotive for ARF entering testing on schedule. This is a significant step forward in our commitment to delivering high-performance, sustainable mobility solutions for Romania.

The new locomotives will bring a major boost to the country’s sustainable rail transport capabilities, both in terms of speed and reliability.