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in short |
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DB Schenker 189 series |
| In 1995, German rail operator DB ordered 195 freight locomotives by Siemens-Kraussmaffei, for domestic freight services; the designated 152 series was delivered between 1997 and 2001. |
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The 1995 order included an option for 100 more locomotives, turned into a fixed order for Siemens in August 1999. The DB decided to take a pretty wild guess, when they decided that these machines had to be fit for true pan-European services, resulting in a technical far more complicated and more expensive machine than a 152 series locomotive, upon the new machine would be based. |
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| Also long before international operability became a key word in European railway operation, Siemens started with the development of new class of locomotives, more advanced and more flexible than ever before. This resulted in the DB designated 189 series, not only a milestone for Siemens, but for the development of the electrical locomotive in general. Thanks to the three-phase current propulsion system and the use of the new IGBT (insulated gate bipolar transistors) technique, it should now be possible to built a reliable locomotive that could run under all 4 voltage systems used in Europe, that would be light (less than 88 t) and compact enough to be homologated for most European countries and that at the same time would be one of the most powerful 4-axle electrics around. |
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| Naturally, this required some serious investments, as the DB had to pay 20% more for each machine now, compared to a 152 series locomotive. Up to 2005 all 100 machines were built and delivered to the DB, that curiously (and unlike competitors that purchased similar machines in the mean time) did not want to rush things when it comes to using these 'Euro'locomotives for real international services; up till December 2007, no 189 series locomotive ran one meter outside the German network during regular service! On the long haul, the 189 will surely expand its service domain towards many neighbouring countries, but it is still questionable if it was wise to order such a large batch of expensive machines that will not be used to their full potential during their first 5-10 years of service, 12 to 25% of their life cycle. |
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| Nevertheless the 189 series, also known under their Siemens designation ES64F4, has taken international freight railways a step further, of which many other operators can profit nowadays. |
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| 1 batch – 100 locomotives |
order date 13.08.1999 |
| follow-up order of the DB Schenker 152 series |
delivery period 04.2003–12.2005 |
| by delivery |
homologated for Germany only |
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operator official website: |
| http://www.railion.de |
| Siemens official website: |
| http://www.siemens.com/ts |
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2017
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2017-07-14
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[NL] White 189 series locomotives of DB Cargo in the Netherlands
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2017-05-26
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[DE] Siemens sells 189 822 and 823 to Deutsche Bahn
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update 2017|05|26
[DE] Siemens sells 189 822 and 823 to Deutsche Bahn
DB Cargo 187 102 with 189 822 in Thüngersheim on 24.05.2017. Photo Nico Daniel
You would almost forget about them, but Siemens still owned two ES64F4 locomotives that have been used on temporary basis over the past years, be it for tests, or for renting out to customers. The Steiermarkbahn operated the 822 until 2017, the 823 was used by CFI in Italy and last seen as test locomotive in Germany and the Netherlands.
Now both engines reportedly have been added to the fleet of DB Cargo. Unexpected, but not unlogical. DB Cargo has one of the largest fleets of machines of this type (90 in total) so the company has extensive experience with the two newbees. One thing is different though, the 822/823 have a different country specific package (version VE DE/AT/CH/IT/NL(SI-HR)) compared to the DB machines (VJ NL-DE or VM-50Hz DE-PL-CZ). It is not known to us if this will change in the (near) future.
The white 189 822 and 823 are the last two unsold units of batch of 20 electrics that were built in 2009-2011. Machines from this production batch were sold to MTEG (1), WLE (1), Locon (2), CTV (2, Romania), Express Group (1, Slovakia), PKP Cargo (1) and MRCE (10).
DB Schenker 189
Stock locomotives type ES 64 F4
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2016
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2016-09-30
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[NL] DB Cargo 189 072 at Amersfoort: derailment
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update 2016|09|30
[NL] DB Cargo 189 072 at Amersfoort: derailment
Above you see a picture of DB Cargo 189 072 after an unfortunate encounter with a buffer-stop at Amersfoort (NL). The last piece of rails with buffer was pushed forward for about 30-50cm. Prorail's incident response team had to come and pulled the locomotive back on track, using DB Cargo 6416 and some metal bars. Thanks Roel Hemkes.
DB Schenker 189
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2016-05-04
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[CZ] Bombardier TRAXX AC3 parade
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update 2016|05|04
[CZ] Bombardier TRAXX AC3 parade
An unique combination, you maybe will never see again. DB Cargo's 189 001 testing with three future colleague locomotives: 187 100, 104 and 105. Norman Gottberg was able to catch this train at the test ring in VUZ Velim in the Czech Republic. Lately, the new TRAXX AC3s for DB Cargo are being tested a lot in combination with other locomotives. We also recorded test runs with 185s for example.
DB Schenker 189
DB Cargo Traxx AC3
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2016-03-03
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DB Cargo is the new DB Schenker Rail
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update 2016|03|03
DB Cargo is the new DB Schenker Rail
You may have read about the current re-organization of the Deutsche Bahn. Together with consultation company McKinsey, it is redefining its services and organizational structure, so it can face the rapidly changing market circumstances.
One of the measures taken is the merger of all rail transport services of the Deutsche Bahn into one division now called 'Traffic & Transport'. Railfreight logistics is taken out of the logistics division and will continue under the 'good old' DB Cargo brand name. To the outside world the Traffic & Transport division will brand itself as 'DB' so we don't expect locomotives nor carriages to get DB Cargo logos again. So the DB logo currently in use will stay as it is.
Until the end, all international railfreight divisions (for example DB Schenker Rail Polska and DB Schenker Rail Italia) will be renamed as DB Cargo.
The non-rail logistic services will continue under the name DB Schenker. Separating the rail related activities from the rest fits the strategy to (partially) sell the new DB Schenker. DB has intentions to do this, but faces strong opposition form the German government. To be continued.
For our website, it means we have to rename the owner name of several thousands of locomotives. This will be done in one big batch. We are working on it.
DB Schenker 189
DB Cargo IT (via Unicredit) Vectron
DB Cargo Traxx AC3
DB Cargo Vectron (Poland)
DB Schenker EG 3100
DB Schenker Rail Italia Traxx DC
DB Schenker Traxx AC1
DB TRAXX F140AC2 (185.2)
DB and ECR TRAXX MS2e
DBSRS 185.2
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2015
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2015-05-08
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[EU] Siemens completes the retrofit of 32 189 series locomotives with VM50Hz package for service in Poland and the Czech Republic
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update 2015|05|08
[EU] Siemens completes the retrofit of 32 189 series locomotives with VM50Hz package for service in Poland and the Czech Republic
Siemens has equipped 32 BR 189 locomotives (Railcolor: 189 001-022 and 055-064) for cross-border services between Germany, Poland the Czech Republic. The last of the locomotives was handed over to DB Schenker at the end of April. All the locomotives were modified and commissioned in the Siemens factory in Munich-Allach. Modification work included integration of the SHP and Mirel train protection systems required for Poland and the Czech Republic as well as supplementary equipment such as a fire prevention system and a rear-view unit that are necessary for certification of the locomotives in the above-mentioned countries (the 'VM50Hz package')
All the approvals required for operation in Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic were successfully acquired by the contractually agreed deadline. The first modified locomotives have been in cross-border service in these countries since December 2014. Siemens was selected to modify the BR 189 locomotives from DB Schenker in December 2012. These locomotives will now enable the transport and logistics company to provide cross-border transportation services on all important mainline routes and the major secondary routes in Poland and the Czech Republic.
In the picture l-r: Sylvia Debler, Project Manager at DB Schenker and Ulrich Grützner, Siemens Project Manager at the handover of the last of the modified locomotives.
(Siemens)
DB Schenker 189
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2015-01-26
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[DE] DB Schenker 189 065 back in service
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update 2015|01|26
[DE] DB Schenker 189 065 back in service
 DB Schenker's 189 065-6 is back in service again. This locomotive was involved in the heavy train accident in Düsseldorf-Eller in December 2012. It derailed and fell of the tracks, ending up crashed into a garden house. In September 2013 the machine was transported to the DB workshops in Dessau, where it was completely restored. Note that the 065 did not get an overhaul. - DSO
DB Schenker 189
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2014
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2014-12-27
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[DE/PL] DB Schenker in Poland: red 189s replace the black ones
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2014-11-29
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[DE/CZ/PL] Close-up: DB Schenker 189 060 -version VM50Hz-
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update 2014|11|29
[DE/CZ/PL] Close-up: DB Schenker 189 060 -version VM50Hz-
We receive many emails and messages about DB Schenker 189 series locomotives, that have been modified for services in Poland and the Czech Republic. True, their number is growing rapidly. Meanwhile, locomotive 189 001, 002, 019 and 055-064 (and we think several more already) all have the necessary modifications to start international services to and from the two countries mentioned. Siemens is retrofitting 32 machines of which fifteen should be available to DB Schenker this December.
The locomotive that are being adjusted were only approved for Germany until now, although they represented three different configurations:
Class 189-VA: 189 001-003 and 055-060
Class 189-VB: 189 004-022, several are already approved for services to Decin in CZ
Class 189-VB2: 189 061-064, only had two pantographs
We now show you some close-up images of locomotive no. 189 060, showing external features by which you can recognize a 189 locomotive with the Class VM-50Hz Package:
Above you see the 'magnets' for the Mirel (amongst other countries, to be used in CZ) and SHP (PL) train detection systems.
Above you see the modified markings on the frame of the locomotive. - RH
DB Schenker 189
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2014-10-27
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[DE/CZ/PL] DB Schenker 189 057 -version VM50Hz-
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update 2014|10|27
[DE/CZ/PL] DB Schenker 189 057 -version VM50Hz-
The retrofitting of DB Schenker's 189 series for services in Poland and the Czech Republic is progressing. Recently the 189 056 and 057 were seen with the new package. In the end, 189 001-022 and 055-064 (32 locomotives) will have the extra equipment. - BG
Update: 28.10.2014: 189 058 was seen in service in Germany, being retrofitted. - ML
DB Schenker 189
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2014-09-27
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[EU] Railcolor Short
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update 2014|09|27
[EU] Railcolor Short
InnoTrans 2014 is over. And yes, so much news still has to be published on this website. We are working on it! First a big thank to all people we met during the past days. It was amazing.
Meanwhile, freight had to be moved throughout Europe. The world does not pause for some fancy exhibition. Some remarkable facts from last week:
Siemens 193 901 is being used by Lokomotion. Nice images ahead. - KAR
Lokomotion is now also hiring brand new ELL locomotive 193 212. It has the normal ELL livery without any supplementary logo (yet). - KAR/KL
MRCE ES 64 F4-841 is now hired to Czech company LokoTrain s.r.o. - PS
Former DB Schenker locomotive 5 170 020 is back in action. We however do not know yet who is operating this machine at this moment (in Poland). - GK
The new Akiem E 186 264 has arrived at Plock in Poland on 25.09.2014. Orlen Koltrans will operate it, like 186 261-263. - PS
DB Schenker's 189 055 is the second locomotive we have seen (after 189 001) being retrofitted with the VM-50Hz package for services in Poland and the Czech Republic. It also has LED front lights now. - MK
DB Regio 146 117 is seen with additional green plugs up front. These make it possible to record security videos of the train in the locomotive.
DB Schenker 189
DB Regio Traxx AC1
ELL Vectron
MRCE ES64F4
Siemens Vectron locos used for test and promotion
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2014-09-01
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[DE] Broken 189s in AW Dessau
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update 2014|09|01
[DE] Broken 189s in AW Dessau
On 30.08.2014, the Dessau workshops had an open door day. This year, the company celebrates its 85th anniversary. Many locomotives could be seen inside and outside that day, in various stages of repair and maintenance. This provided an update on the situation of three different Siemens ES 64 F4 locomotives that suffered from collisions over the past couple of years:
21.09.2011: MRCE ES 64 F4-204 caught fire after crash in Blecherode (DE)
09.12.2012: DB Schenker 189 065 ended up in a garden after colliding with a bus
30.11.2013: MRCE ES 64 F4-115 had one cab damaged in Padborg (DK)
For the first locomotive mentioned, it seems to be over. Its empty body was transported recently to Dessau, where it is now parked on the outskirts of the workshops perimeter. 189 095 and ES 64 F4-115 are more lucky. Repair work on both machines is progressing, as the images show.
MRCE ES 64 F4-204:
DB Schenker 189 065:
MRCE ES 64 F4-115:
DB Schenker 189
MRCE ES64F4
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2014-05-11
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[CZ] Super Siemens train in VUZ Velim
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update 2014|05|11
[CZ] Super Siemens train in VUZ Velim
A shot from the back of a Siemens power train at the VUZ Velim test center: DB Schenker 189 001 (first Class-189 VM locomotive with 50Hz filter), SNCB 1877 and 1861, former DB Schenker Vectron 5 170 020, Siemens Vectron MS's 193 820, 822 and 902. - AB
The complete numbers:
91 80 6193 902-4 D-PCW
91 80 6193 822-4 D-PCW
91 80 6193 820-8 D-PCW
91 51 5170 020-9 PL-DBSRP
91 88 0180 610-3 B-B
91 88 0180 770-5 B-B
91 80 6189 001-1 D-DB
DB Schenker 189
Siemens Vectron locos used for test and promotion
SNCB HLE 18-19
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2014-04-27
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[CZ] New: DB Schenker 189 version VM 50Hz [editedx2]
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update 2014|04|27
[CZ] New: DB Schenker 189 version VM 50Hz [editedx2]
[Editx2/updated] Yesterday we got the notification that DB Schenker's 189 001 was seen in the Czech Republic with new markings: Class-189 VM 50Hz. This locomotive was transported to Praha-Uhrineves last Saturday, in a Metrans train. [update] 189 001 continued its journey to the VUZ Velim test center.
With this new package the red 189 will be approved for Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic in the future. However, an approval for the Czech Republic always comes with limitations for modern electrics with three phase propulsion systems. A VM configured 189 has the same limitations to its working area (two transit corridors and some few other lines) compared to non-VM versions, when they are not fitted with a so called 50Hz filter, an issue concerning disturbance currents. The DB Schenker 189-VMs will be the first units of their type to have such filter installed. - ML/PK
In January 2013, DB Schenker gave Siemens the assignment to retrofit 32 of its 189 series locomotives (unit 189 001-022 and 189 055-064) for Poland and the Czech Republic. Now we see the first results of this.
DB Schenker 189
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2013
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2013-12-02
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[DE] Over and out for DB 189 065? [updated]
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update 2013|12|02
[DE] Over and out for DB 189 065? [updated]
A curious sight: DB Schenker hauling DB Schenker Rail. They other way around would be normal.... A week ago we brought the news about DB Schenker 189 065 being the first of its series to be scrapped. Although we still do not have final confirmation of this information, we did get these interesting images from the Autobahn: the body of 189 065 on a truck. Question is, where did it go to?
nb. 189 065 is the first DB locomotive of its type that faces demolition. It is the second Siemens ES 64 F4-machine that will be taken out of service, after MRCE ES 64 F4-204. On 31.10.2013, the 204, partially destroyed by fire, was still parked in Nordhausen (DE).
DB Schenker 189
MRCE ES64F4
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2013-10-21
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[DE] DB Schenker Rail 189 078 burning
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update 2013|10|21
[DE] DB Schenker Rail 189 078 burning
Recap from last Saturday: In Hüthum, near Emmerich, locomotive 189 078 caught fire while hauling a charcoal freight train bound to the Netherlands. - schulmanntv.de
DB Schenker 189
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2013-08-04
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[DE/NL] DB Schenker 189 074 back in service (crash Düsseldorf-Eller)
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update 2013|08|04
[DE/NL] DB Schenker 189 074 back in service (crash Düsseldorf-Eller)
On the evening of 19.12.2012, two freight trains destroyed a bus on a road crossing in Düsseldorf. DB Schenker 185 388, hauling the one train, derailed. The other freight train was pulled by 189 074 and 065. The latter one ended up in a garden next to the tracks. 189 074 has been repaired in the mean time and is back in service. - AS
< check the Trainspo.com gallery |
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DB Schenker 189
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2013-06-11
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[DE] DB Schenker 189 008 back in service
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update 2013|06|11
[DE] DB Schenker 189 008 back in service
 DB Schenker multisystem locomotive 189 008 has been out of the game for almost 14 months. On 24.01.2012 it was officially taken out of service (in Germany they say z-gestellt). On May 10th, the Dessau works outshopped the engine again after a general overhaul. - DR
DB Schenker 189
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2013-02-24
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[DE] R1 overhaul cycle on the 189 series
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update 2013|02|24
[DE] R1 overhaul cycle on the 189 series
The 'fresh' 189 076 (Revision LD X 12.02.2013) and two sister locomotives. These two machines, no. 189 080 and 100 will get their overhaul very soon. The R1 revision cycle of the 189 series will be completed in 2013.
DB Schenker 189
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2013-01-24
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[DE/PL/CZ] Siemens to convert 32 DB Schenker Rail 189 series locomotives
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update 2013|01|24
[DE/PL/CZ] Siemens to convert 32 DB Schenker Rail 189 series locomotives
 Siemens: DB Schenker Rail has commissioned Siemens to convert 32 of its existing series 189 locomotives for future cross-border deployment from and to Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic. To this end, the locomotives will be equipped with automatic train protection systems and components that are required on both countries' lines. Series conversion is scheduled to start in summer 2014 at the Munich-Allach plant. When the new timetable enters into force in December 2014, at least 15 locomotives will be available along the routes to and from the Czech Republic, including electrified branch lines. The remaining conversion work will be completed by spring 2015. The contract is worth tens of millions of euros.
DB Schenker Rail currently operates 90 series 189 locomotives. 58 of these locomotives are deployed on cross-border routes between Germany and the Netherlands, forming the backbone of the heavy goods transportation network
between these two countries. The remaining 32 locomotives to be converted were previously in use only within Germany. This conversion will enable DB Schenker Rail to deploy the tried-and-tested locomotives, manufactured by Siemens, in even more European countries.
The converted locomotives will also meet the homologation criteria for operation in Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary and Austria. This will create the opportunity for DB Schenker Rail to serve the corridor from the border stations in the Netherlands right through to the Black Sea in Romania or the Baltic Sea ports in Poland. As part of the conversion, the locomotives will also be equipped with a modern firefighting system, operated using an environmentally friendly extinguishing gas to minimize consequential damages. To enable the zones to the rear to be monitored, the locomotives will be fitted with four external cameras, from which the images can be called up on the displays in the driver's cab.
Railcolor: First, let's do some math here: 32 units will be converted, those that are not fitted for the Netherlands: 189 001-022 and 189 055-064. The VM package, currently installed on MRCE and PKP ES 64 F4 electrics, can do the job here.
Curious is also that the December 2014 time table change is mentioned, together with services to the Czech Republic. 189s are freight locomotives, freight contracts do not necessarily change with the introduction of a new time table. No, wasn't DB planning to find a new partner for its international EC services linking Hamburg, Berlin and Prague?
DB Schenker 189
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2013-01-14
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[DE] 189 065: with 30 kph to Köln-Gremberg
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update 2013|01|14
[DE] 189 065: with 30 kph to Köln-Gremberg
The images show special train SW 52963. Today, DB Schenker 185 190 brought the damaged 189 065 from the crash site in Düsseldorf-Eller to Köln-Gremberg. The 065 can still roll, but only slowly. Vmax was 30 kph. Because the 189 could only couple on one side, the transport ran via Ratingen, Duisburg to Oberhausen-West. Then it continued to Oberhausen, Duisburg Hbf, Duisburg-Wedau, Ratingen, Düsseldorf-Eller, Hilden and Opladen to Gremberg. - NE
DB Schenker 189
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2013-01-12
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[NL] History: 189 047 at Roosendaal Spoort
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update 2013|01|12
[NL] History: 189 047 at Roosendaal Spoort
 A picture, taken in the summer of 2004. You see brand new 189 047 of Railion amoung many other interesting rail vehicles in the Netherlands. In the background one can see the monumental shed of Roosendaal.
The event 'Roosendaal Spoort' celebrated 150 year of railway history in the city of Roosendaal. During this event your webmasters had his first encounter with a ES 64 F4-locomotive, a real one.
DB Schenker 189
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2012
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2012-12-21
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[DE] Train crash in Düsseldorf-Eller [updated]
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update 2012|12|21
[DE] Train crash in Düsseldorf-Eller [updated]
On the evening of 19.12.2012, two freight trains destroyed a bus on a road crossing in Düsseldorf. Luckely no one was injured. One freight train was hauled by DB Schenker's 185 388 which ended derailed in the track bedding. The train in opposite direction had two locomotives up front, 189 074 and 065. The latter one was less fortunate and ended up in a garden nearby destroying a small garden house. - NE
Images taken from the air.
DB Schenker 189
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2012-05-05
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[DE/AT] DB Schenker 189s overhauled in... Linz
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update 2012|05|05
[DE/AT] DB Schenker 189s overhauled in... Linz
When locomotives of DB Schenker need a big overhaul, the work shops of Dessau (DE) are the place to be. But at this moment their capacity is fully booked. The 152 series is its is second revision cycle. Both the 185s and 189s are due for their first check-up. This is just too much. So DB Schenker has been looking for alternative locations. Several 185s are overhauled in Magdeburg-Rothensee (LMR). For the 189, DB Schenker has contracted the Austrian work shops of Linz. They have experience with the technically advanced 189, as they also service similar locomotives for private operators like RTC and Lokomotion.
The images show 189 043 before an overhaul in Linz, and 189 050 all being fresh and shiny again. The change of appearance on most 189s is limited. Units that did not have a DB logos on their sides get one. Railion2 logos are taken of and replaced by a DB one again. Many of the locomotives which are refreshed right now are approved for the Netherlands and have a white front (this is not mandatory anymore!). They keep it.
DB Schenker 189
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2011
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2011-09-07
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[DE/NL] no more Tulips
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update 2011|09|07
[DE/NL] no more Tulips
  Last weekend, DB Schenker 189 065 lost its Dutch decorations. It is red again. - DSO
DB Schenker 189
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2010
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2010-03-12
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[DE/NL] update on 189 with automatic couplers
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update 2010|03|12
[DE/NL] update on 189 with automatic couplers
Yesterday, 189 030-032 and 036 left Munich with their new automatic couplers. The were heading for Gremberg. These are the first four of a batch of 18 to be equipped with these ACs. The 189 030-047 will have to replace DB 151 series locomotives used for ore trains from Rotterdam [NL] to Dillingen [DE]. - SH
update: on 16.03.2010 the first trial with AC-equipped 189s will start. In the night a first train will leave Rotterdam.
DB Schenker 189
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2009
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2009-11-20
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[DE/NL] more VJ-189s for DB Schenker (update)
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update 2009|11|20
[DE/NL] more VJ-189s for DB Schenker (update)
 
Here DB Schenker proudly announces the introduction of another 32 modern electrics in the international freight transport in the Netherlands and Germany. All refitted units should be available per December 2009. Nothing new here, the second round of the 189-refit is already on its way since this summer. This batch of 32 should include unit numbers 189 024-054 (previously with VA-configuration) and 081 (VB2-confiuguration).
DB Schenker 189
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2009-08-22
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[DE/NL] more 189s for the Netherlands (update)
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update 2009|08|22
[DE/NL] more 189s for the Netherlands (update)
In the mean time more 189s which recently got refitted with a 'Dutch package' have been spotted. It looks like at least the sub serie 189 024-037 will get the new equipment now. Most likely, more will follow soon, as this website tells us that the DB is planning to finally refit 58 out of its 90 units.
The first sub serie of 26 units was formed in 2007: 189 023 as prototype, followed by 189 065-080, 082-089 and 100. This means that another 32 units will follow now and in 2010. 12 of them will get automatic couplers for hauling heavy mineral convoys.
 During the second retrofitting-phase, also a machine has re-appeared we haven't seen for a long time: 189 081. Due to damage this machine has been out of service for a long time and did not make it to the first round. At this moment it can be seen in service of DB Autozug, which, since the summer, is hiring its machines for EC services to Amsterdam from DB Schenker.
DB Schenker 189
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2009-08-16
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[DE/NL] more 189s for the Netherlands
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update 2009|08|16
[DE/NL] more 189s for the Netherlands
 DB Schenker is refitting a second batch of 189 series electrics for services into the Netherlands. 189 024 is one of the first back in service after being equipped with two new pantographs and the Dutch ATB signalling system. The machines fit for running in the Netherlands are easy to recognize by their white fronts. - AS
DB Schenker 189
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2008
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2008-06-17
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[NL] 189 023 powered by Prorail
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update 2008|06|17
[NL] 189 023 powered by Prorail
Absolutely a must-see: http://www.hsl-zuid.nl
The update of June 11th reports on the latest test runs ProRail is performing at the HSL-Zuid. Prorail has therefore hired 189 023 and 065 from DB Schenker. ProRail 189 023-5 therefore got special logos.
DB Schenker 189
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2008-05-27
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[EU] Railcolor Shorts (update)
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update 2008|05|27
[EU] Railcolor Shorts (update)
 ACTS in Holland will use 189 092 tonight and tomorrow for its own services - E 189 989/931 and E483 003 are doin SCMT trials in Orte, Italy (see picture) - 185-CL 003 'Sir Rainer' made trials in its new Veolia livery today - For the very first time, CTL logistics did a nonstop-run from Germany to Holland, with E 189 928 via Emmerich to Rotterdam - 189 054 slightly damaged after running into a Eaos freight waggon in Augsburg, Germany
Alpha Trains TRAXX DC
Beacon Rail Traxx AC1
DB Schenker 189
MRCE ES64F4
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2008-05-18
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[EU] Railcolor Shorts
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update 2008|05|18
[EU] Railcolor Shorts
189 023 + 065 + 2 ICRm coaches and a Lloyds register measurement-car make test runs at the Dutch part of the HSL - Adria-Transport 1216 920 is seen outside the Linz workshops - E186 108 is again in Holland - E186 109 is Austria for ETCS testing - DLC/Crossrail plans services in/to the Netherlands with E186 144 and 145 - HectorRail 241.006 is the second locomotive in hire to TX Logistik for one year
Adria Transport 1216
Alpha Trains TRAXX MS2e
DB Schenker 189
Macquarie Rail (former CBRail) TRAXX MS2e
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2008-04-02
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[DE] 189 081 is back
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update 2008|04|02
[DE] 189 081 is back
Maybe many of you have noticed it, but DB locomotive 189 081 is back in business, after a long stay at the Dessau works. It was involved in a shunting accident in Nurnberg, together with 185 223. The 189 081 had to miss out on the retrofitting-process for services into Holland because of this and it's in service again with its original class189-VB2 configuration and Railion 2 logos. - Various
DB Schenker 189
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2008-03-27
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[DE] the DB about its new corporate identity
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update 2008|03|27
[DE] the DB about its new corporate identity
In the current issue of Railways (01.2008), a magazine published online by the DB/Railion, an article can be found in which the DB makes clear how its new names, logos and identity will be applied on its rolling stock. For locomotives, not much will change; what was expected becomes reality, all machines will get only a DB logo, because this subscribes the neutral character of DB Schenker and DB Intermodal (Both DB subsidiaries for freight operation) in respect to its customers that operate in the (inter)national logistics market too. - Railways / Railion.com
DB: 182
DB Schenker 189
DB Schenker EG 3100
DB Schenker Traxx AC1
DB TRAXX F140AC2 (185.2)
DB and ECR TRAXX MS2e
DBSRS 185.2
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2003
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2003-12-04
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[DE] 189s with Railion2 logos
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update 2003|12|04
[DE] 189s with Railion2 logos
More and more locos in Germany are being Railionized! Next to the 151 002 and several 185-locos also the brand new 189 020, 022, 023 and 024 have Railion-logos.
DB Schenker 189
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2003-11-11
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[NL] 189 004 and 007 at Kijfhoek
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update 2003|11|11
[NL] 189 004 and 007 at Kijfhoek
Seen today again, still standing (for almost 2 weeks now) in Kijfhoek (Holland): 189 004 ´Railion´ + 1619 Railion + Df + Df + planW + 189 007.
I already saw them myself on 06.10.2003, again at Kijfhoek shunt yard.
DB Schenker 189
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2003-09-10
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[DE] 189 012 delivered without logos
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update 2003|09|10
[DE] 189 012 delivered without logos
On 22.08.2003 the 189 012 was delivered, without logos! So in a short time there are already 3 different re liveries for the BR189.
The new 189 011 has normal DB-logos. That's remarkable because the 189 010 was delivered with the Railion2 logos.
DB Schenker 189
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DB 189: 3 prototypes and serie delivery |
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The era of the new EuroLok started in September 2002, when one of three prototypes were completed in Munchen-Allach and was being transported to the Velim test circuit in the Czech Republic, followed by other exotic trips to the north of Sweden for trials in extreme weather conditions and Luxembourg to test the 25kVAC equipment.
Test program ended in April 2003 and 189 001-003 were handed over to the German operator. Serie delivered started one month later. The DB career of the original 189 001-003 soon proved to be a short one, as they were already withdrawn again in October-November 2003. The DB demanded 100 identical machines and the prototypes slightly differed form the series batch. In stead of retrofitting them, Siemens decided to replace them by three new machines, again numbered 189 001-003, and integrate the old ones in their own Dispolok fleet.
Next to technical differences, the prototypes looked slightly different from the series batch. They had nice integrated steel rain gutters above the cabin side, no rubber strips. The grey paint on the frame section was just going a little further around the corner on both front sections and initially the design of their entrance doors was different.
The remaining 97 locomotives were delivered between May 2003 and December 2005.
brand new prototype locomotive 189 003 |
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the basics
Between 1996 and 2007, the operator of the 189 series changed name several times, and so did corporate logos applied on its rolling stock. The basis however remained the same up till now; body in RAL 3020 ‘Verkehrsrot’ and frame/roof tops in RAL 7012 ‘Basaltgrau’. When first machines were delivered, at the end of 2002 and in the early months of 2003, a small DB logo up front and on both sides was the standard. 189 001-003 (prototype batch) and 189 004-011 got them.
In September 2003 however, Railion became the news standard, including new Railion logos with the small blue square on the right. 189 010, at that moment still waiting in Munchen-Allach for official delivery, was the first to get the 'Railion 2' look ('2', as there was already a first Railion look the end of the 90s. A first attempt to introduce the Railion identity, using a similar logo, but with a blue square on the left..).
From the 189 012 on, Siemens delivered all new 189 series locomotives without logos, as Railion would apply them when they would be handed over to the operator in Nurnberg. This however only happened to 189 013, 022-025, 030-031, 038-042, 046-049 and 052 (detail: 189 030 and 048 only got them on both cab fronts). Others, including the three prototype replacement locomotives, went into service being ‘naked’. 189 054-099 were delivered with Railion2 logos by Siemens. At the end of 2005, Railion DB Logistics was the new official name of the operator, only promoted by the very last machine of its batch, 189 100, because it was handed over to the DB with a small ceremony.
One of four 189s that got Railion DB Logistics logos, in Berlin hauling a passenger train.
livery changes after delivery
Between 2003 and 2007 the design of very few locomotives changed. 189 001II, 002II, and 004 got Railion 2 logos in 2003 and 2004. 189 027 was the first to get DB Logistics logos, in November 2005, 189 010 and 013 followed soon. At the end of 2007, the latest name was introduced; DB Schenker. All machines get small DB logos again, but this has not affected the look of any 189 series machine up til now.
'Holland-Latz'
With the introduction of the 189 in the Netherlands in December 2007, one could say a new standard was created. Dutch rail safety authorities demand that all vehicles on their territory have a bright yellow or white front to increase visibility. 189 065-080, 082-089 and 100, those were selected for services to Holland, got a bright white front, without logos. |
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DB 189: on the BetuweRoute |
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 Between 2003 and 2007, several 189 series locomotives visited the Netherlands. Especially the BetuweRoute was a popular destination. 189 004, 007, 010 and 013 were frequent visitors, used for trials that would eventually lead to homologation of the 189 series in Holland and at the same they could be used to evaluate the BetuweRoute infrastructure and train detection systems. 189 016 was assigned to the official BetuweRoute test train, from June 2006 to December 2006. It got special logos for this. |
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DB 189: 189 090-099 sold to MRCE Dispolok |
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an ex-Railion 189, not hard to recognize..
Banks, governmental bodies and other financial companies have always been involved in financing rolling stock, often requiring a considerable investment for an operator. But since the late 90s there is a new phenomenon in the railway market; leasing companies that explicitly profile themselves as top providers of rolling stock for railway operation. Like for airplanes, see-ships, automobiles, one can now lease or hire a locomotive for a certain period of time. In Europe, Angel Trains Europe (ATE), Mitsui Rail Capital Europe (MRCE), CBRail and Allco are examples of companies investing large sums of money into the rail way market, slowly replacing the good old state operators as leading customers for the industry.
 The DB decided to close a deal with MRCE back in 2006. The leasing company would buy 10 of their 189 series locomotives, designated 189 090-099, to be leased back to the DB again; a construction called sale-lease-back. The DB earns some money; Mitsui invests in relatively new locomotives, ready for service. All machines got a little shield in every cabin, saying that they were now official property of MRCE. In May 2007, 189 095 was even painted all black, the corporate colour of MRCE.
But then the story took a strange turn. In the summer of 2007 MRCE made clear that they now had other plans with the batch of then, involving true international services, serving other customers of the leasing company. From 07.2007 to 01.2008, the contracts with the DB for all 10 machines were ended; their logos removed so they could be rented out to other operators.
 In July 2007, 189 090 and 095 were the first ones returned by the DB. They were sent to Berlin for a true metamorphose at the paint shops of Dangelmayer. After that, they were transported to Siemens in Munchen for retrofitting additional train detection equipment, upgrade their software and to mount two extra pantographs.
 In January 2008, 189 090 was the very first to leave Munchen, all black and shiny, with new MRCE-Dispolok logos, the MRCE subsidiary that manages all locomotives for customers in the South and Central Europe. 189 092-095 got the same treatment in the months that followed. The machines got new service numbers, but it took quite some time to find a satisfying solution. The problem was that MRCE-Dispolok already operated a considerable fleet of ES64F4 locomotives (the former Siemens Dispolok machines) including machines numberes as ES64F4 090-099. MRCE-Dispolok planned on renumbering the former DB machines as ES64F4 series, but simply taking over the DB numbers was therefore not possible. Only the repainted 189 094 carried service number ES64F4 094 for a short while. Also former Dispolok machine ES64F4 094 was already repainted in black at that time, so for a short time two identical machines were running around. Luckely, 189 093-05 are now on hire to Veolia Cargo, which changed their appearance again, now carrying red and grey vinyls. At this moment, the five former DB-locomotives that are repainted in MRCE-Dispolok colors, only carry designation 'ES64F4' up front. You can only identify them now by there RFI service number, E189 090/092-095.
 And 189 091/096-099? Curiously, after being returned by DB Schenker, they were transported to Siemens test center in Wegberg-Wildenrath and retrofitted with all equipment needed for running in Holland. They got a white nose, but kept their red DB livery. Per April 2008 these machines are being used for long-haul services from Germany to Holland and vice versa by...... DB Schenker! |
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 Although having the potential the become a genuine European locomotive, it took quit a long time to start up revenue services that actually crossed the German border. A first, small step was taken in February 2006; since then the 189 003-012 have a restricted approval by the Czech railway authorities to run between Bad-Schandau in Germany and Decin in the Czech Republic.
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DB 189: the Netherlands, 1st batch |
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In December 2007 revenue services to the Netherlands started. For this, Railion had the 189 023 (prototype), 065-080, 082-089, and 100 refitted; All machines got extra pantographs, ETCS detection systems, UIC service numbers and white front surfaces for better visibility, obligatory in Holland. The 189s can run on both the classic freight corridors and the BetuweRoute and represent the ES 64 F4 sub type VJ.
 189 065 got a special livery to clebrate DBs expansion to the west. 189 023 kept on performing trails. In the summer of 2008 it was hired to ProRail for example for testing on the HSL-Zuid.
Blumen-lok 189 065 attended the opening of a new exhibition about freight transport in the National Railway Museum in Utrecht, the Netherlands, back in November 2007.
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DB 189: the Netherlands, 2nd batch |
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 In the Summer of 2009, DB Schenker started the second round of refitting. This time 32 units were adjuested fur running in the Netherlands; 189 024-054 (previously with VA configuration) and 081 (VB2 confiuguration).
 During the second round, a machine has re-appeared we haven't seen for a long time: 189 081. Due to damage this machine has been out of service for a long time and did not make it to the first round. After its refit it was spotted a lot in service of DB Autozug, which, since the summer, hired 189s for EC services to Amsterdam. |
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In the weekend of 30 and 31 November 2008, Railion performed trials with a 1000 meter freight train over the BetuweRoute, from Oberhausen to Rotterdam. This trial is part of the GZ1000 project, with which the DB is evaulating the every day feasability of extra long freight trains. The project also included a test with an 800 meter train between Hamburg and Denmark that year.
For the Dutch trial, locomotive 189 072 was selected, therefore it got the GZ1000 markings. |
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In 2009 Siemens and DB Schenker conducted an experiment with unit 189 065, during which it was equipped with Faiveley Transpact TTK automatic couplers, also known as C-AKv couplers. The results were promising because DB Schenker decided to equip 18 units, then to be used for the heavy ore trains from Rotterdam [NL] to Dillingen [DE], replacing 6400 diesel units in the Netherlands and the 151 series in Germany.
 Siemens started the refit-program in February 2010, the first four units were outshopped in Munich on 06.03.2010. These units are easily recognized by the yellow painted couplers and yellow warning vinyls are their frame ends.
The 189 030-032 and 036 left Munich in 06.03.2010, heading for Gremberg. |
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DB 189: Select your Locomotive: |
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Alstom
