Siemens Mobility has completed the delivery of the final unit from an initial order of 80 Vectron electric locomotives to VR Group, marking the conclusion of a supply agreement signed at the beginning of 2014. At the time, the deal stood as the largest single contract for the Vectron platform and represented its first application on Finland’s broad gauge rail network. It also constituted the most significant rolling stock investment ever undertaken by VR Group at that point. The Vectron electric locomotive order was delivered in line with the contractually agreed schedule, ensuring timely execution of the project milestones.
“The completion of this order underlines the versatility of the Vectron platform and our experience in managing complex locomotive projects from design adaptation through to final delivery,” said Steffen Bobsien, Vice President Locomotives and Coaches at Siemens Mobility.
Echoing the importance of the investment, Joonas Roivainen, Vice President, Fleet Management at VR, stated, “Operational reliability is a key factor for our customers in rail transport, which is why we invest in rolling stock in a long-term and systematic manner. Developed for Finland’s demanding operating conditions, Sr3 electric locomotives serve both passenger and heavy freight traffic, and the investment further strengthens operational reliability across rail transport, supporting Finnish industry and reliable passenger services now and in the future.”
The deployment of the Vectron electric locomotive order underscores their role in enhancing both freight and passenger services.
Designed specifically to withstand extreme environments, the locomotives were engineered to perform reliably in temperatures dropping to -40 degrees Celsius, while also complying with Northern Europe’s regulatory and operational standards. Manufacturing took place at Siemens Mobility’s facility in Munich, Germany, with bogies produced in Graz, Austria. Delivered progressively over the duration of the contract, the Vectron electric locomotive order has now been fully incorporated into VR Group’s fleet, collectively logging approximately 72 million kilometers in service across passenger and freight operations.
With this project finalized, Siemens Mobility further strengthens its global credentials in delivering adaptable locomotive platforms suited to diverse track gauges and operating conditions. The modular Vectron family is designed to function across a wide spectrum of climates, from polar cold to desert heat. To date, more than 2,900 locomotives from the Vectron range have been sold to over 110 customers, with the fleet accumulating around 1.35 billion kilometers in operation. These locomotives have also secured approval for use in 20 European countries, reinforcing their widespread adoption and operational flexibility.
