In this section, different series of ES64F4 platform locomotives come together, with completely different backgrounds.
The first batch contains all ES64F4 platform locomotives that Siemens has been building for its Siemens Dispolok subsidiary, managing locomotives for rental and leasing purposes since 2003. As Siemens decided to sell Siemens Dispolok at the end of 2006 to Mitsui leasing, all ES64F4s running at that moment for Siemens Dispolok became part of what’s called now the MRCE-Dispolok fleet. Theoretically, it concerns a batch of 45 machines. However, several machines were sold to other operators before it was completed, so this number of machines never ran for Dispolok simultaneously. With the yellow-silver painted machines, Siemens has succeeded to tear down many European borders, and will continue to do so, say it now under command of MRCE Dispolok.
Also present in this section, are ten ES64F4 platform machines, which were originally built for the Deutsche Bahn in 2005. The bright red painted machines were sold to Mitsui in October 2006, which then rented them back to the German operator. At the end of 2007 however, Mitsui decided to make these machines available for other operators too. This included retrofitting extra equipment for crossing the German borders, and a rebranding of the machines by painting them black, so they would fit perfectly into the new corporate identity of MRCE-Dispolok.
Thirdly, the ambition of MRCE-Dispolok has no limits, the leasing company decided to order 50 additional ES64F4 platform machines when it acquired the Dispolok pool from Siemens in 2006. Later on this order was extended to even 70 units, of various different configurations.
In april 2011 MRCE Dispolok decided to order five additonal units for customers in the Central and Eastern Europe parts of Europe, certified to operate on long-distance routes from the Black Sea to the Baltic ports in Poland and to the Dutch border. Five units that Siemens laready had in stcok were selected. In april and may 2011, ES 64 F4-840 to 844 were delivered to MRCE Dispolok.
ES64F4 locomotives, built for the former Siemens Dispolok locomotive pool, aquired per 10.2006
1 batch - 45 locomotives
delivery period 09.2003 - 06.2007
designation ES64F4 001-028, 030-033, 088-099 and 400
ES64F4 locomotives, acquired from DB Schenker per 10.2006
1 batch - 10 locomotives
designation ES64F4 990-999
1 batch - 70 locomotives
order date xx.10.2006 (first 50 units, later on twenty extra units were ordered)
[EU] MRCE ES 64 F4-842 now with Express Group logos
update 2017|09|25
[EU] MRCE ES 64 F4-842 now with Express Group logos
Ostrava-Svinov - 23.09.2017 - Photo: Mario Lippert
Since January this year, the Express Group from Bratislava is hiring MRCE ES 64 F4-842. So this operator now has a white and a black F4 locomotive in their fleet. This is our first image of the 842 with Express Group logos.
[NL] Yellow-silver ES 64 F4-205 back in the Netherlands
update 2017|09|21
[NL] Yellow-silver ES 64 F4-205 back in the Netherlands
After being in service for PKP Cargo, MRCE yellow-silver locomotive no. ES 64 F4-205 is available for other purposes again. Curiously, the machine was transported to Bad Bentheim this week, and taken along to Hengelo by a Railexperts locomotive. But the locomotive was certified to run in the Netherlands, what has changed so it needs to be towed now? Update: The locomotive has not been used in the Netherlands for quit some time now. Photo: Johannes Kauffmann en Christian Klotz
[CH/DE] Portrait of the Novelis locomotives ES 64 F4-094 and 090 [updated]
update 2017|06|20
[CH/DE] Portrait of the Novelis locomotives ES 64 F4-094 and 090 [updated]
Portraits of both MRCE > SBB Cargo International > SBB Cargo ES 64 F4 locomotives that are now dedicatedly pulling aluminum trains between Sierre (CH) and Göttingen (DE). The 094 has the name of the first city mentioned, the 090 of the latter one. Photos: Romain Constantin
[EU] Two new -Werbeloks- for SBB Cargo, Retrack and Novelis
update 2017|06|13
[EU] Two new -Werbeloks- for SBB Cargo, Retrack and Novelis
SBB Cargo blogs: MRCE locomotives no. ES64F4-094 is now gray, and covered with images of large aluminum rolls. It sports the logos of SBB Cargo, Retrack (VTG Rail Logistics) and Novelis. It carries the name and shield of the city of Sierre in Switzerland.
The 094 (soon to be joined by the 090) will be used for hauling aluminum trains between Sierre (CH) and Göttingen (DE). The new livery promotes the close partnership between the three companies mentioned. SBB Cargo is responsible for the disposition of the trains and drives them through Switzerland, VTG Rail Logistics takes over in Germany and Noviles is the manufacturer of the aluminum products.
[NL] Aftermath: MRCE ES 64 F4-995 after its crash in Sevenum
update 2017|05|31
[NL] Aftermath: MRCE ES 64 F4-995 after its crash in Sevenum
MRCE > MRCE ES 64 F4-995 was taken to Blerick after the collision. Photo: Wilco Trumpie
Yesterday morning, a freight train collided onto a freight truck in Sevenum (NL). The LTE train hauled by MRCE ES 64 F4-995 ran into a truck that was blocking the level crossing (which is fully automated and secured). The train and truck driver were not injured. The truck driver was able to jump of the truck before the collision.
[EU] MRCE ES 64 F4-212 with NL-PL wrapping, now with LTE logos
update 2017|05|24
[EU] MRCE ES 64 F4-212 with NL-PL wrapping, now with LTE logos
Still with its ERS Railways theme livery, but now running for LTE. Photo: Csaba ProhaszkaMRCE ES64F4
2017-04-21
[NL] Detail changes stickers on MRCE ES64F4-209
update 2017|04|21
[NL] Detail changes stickers on MRCE ES64F4-209
Small changes have been made to the stickers on MRCE > RTB Cargo ES64F4-209. Its 'European Gateway' stickers now features the new RTB Cargo logos. The old orange ECT logos have been replaced by 'Hutchison Ports ECT Rotterdam', in line with the renaming of the mother company of ECT. Photo: Wilco Trumpie
[EU] MRCE > PKP Cargo 189 205 has lost its PKP stickers
update 2017|03|03
[EU] MRCE > PKP Cargo 189 205 has lost its PKP stickers
Seen today in Selchow (DE), a MRCE ES64F4 series locomotives in silver and yellow, quite clean, without numbers and logos... This is MRCE ES 64 f4-205 (also known as PKP Cargo EU45-205) that has just had its PKP stickers removed. Norman Gottberg
MRCE ES64F4
2017-02-21
[NL] ERS Railways stops Melzo and Poznan container shuttles [updated]
update 2017|02|21
[NL] ERS Railways stops Melzo and Poznan container shuttles [updated]
In 2014, MRCE ES 64 F4-212 and 213 got this special livery to celebrate the second anniversary of the ERSR Rotterdam - Poznan shuttle. Photo: Marco Rodenburg
We are closely monitoring the status of electric locomotives operated by ERS Railways from Rotterdam. Mother company Genessee & Wyoming has decided to discontinue most ERS routes and to drastically shrink its operations. G&W wants to bring back its remaining business on the EU continent (port switching and maritime intermodal) back to profitability by mid-2017.
G&W from the United States is the owner of the Freightliner Group, that acquired ERS Railways in 2013. An overview of the ERSR fleet of electrics, all on hire from MRCE:
ES64F4-201 (MRCE black, ERSR logos) has transferred to LTE
ES64F4-202 (yellow/silver, ERSR logos) subhired to LTE on daily basis
ES64F4-203 (yellow/silver, ERSR logos) subhired to LTE on daily basis
Not 1, not 2, but 3 images today of MRCE > LTE ES 64 F4 - 200 and its new side stickers. The vinyls are put on to promote the railfreight connection between Rotterdam and China; Chengdu - Tilburg - Rotterdam. Photos: Sven Jonas / Arjen Verlaan / Maik Broicher
MRCE ES 64 F4-009 just had its second main overhaul at Dessau: REV 06.10.2016. Remarkable is that this overhaul is done after only four years of services, as the previous main check-up was done in 2012.
This time, the loco has been repainted in black, it was still carrying its yellow-silver Siemens Dispolok livery from 2004. The sticker man however made a small mistake: up front the loco now sports the number 'ES 64 F4-909' which should be 'ES 64 F4-009'.
[IT] Portrait of MRCE > ISC ES 64 F4-016 in yellow
update 2016|09|10
[IT] Portrait of MRCE > ISC ES 64 F4-016 in yellow
Meanwhile Italian railfreight operator ISC has at least re-colored three of its MRCE ES64F4 locomotives: the 016, 101 and 403 are all yellow now. Gianluca Detti sent these images of the 016 taken at Nola Interporto.
[AT] Horsepower! New livery for MRCE > TXL ES 64 F4-097
update 2016|08|13
[AT] Horsepower! New livery for MRCE > TXL ES 64 F4-097
We are here, we are there, we are everywhere. Just to bring you the latest news on colorful railways. This afternoon, MRCE > TX Logistik ES 64 F4-097 has been released with a new promotional livery. It got stickers showing off how many horsepower the locomotive can bring to the rails, more than 8.500! So, from now on, these horse are clearly visible. Thanks Henk Zwoferink.
We also made a picture special of the two new Loc&More locomotive livery designs. Check it out on our Railcolornews.com website or click the image below:
MRCE ES 64 F4-016, in service of ISC from Italy is the second e-loco to receive the yellow ISC livery. First one was ES 64 F4-110. Thank you Alessandro Destasi.
MRCE ES64F4
MRCE locomotive ES 64 F4-110 has a new livery and it is yellow, very yellow. It is the livery of Italian operator Interporto Servizi Cargo (ISC). Check the first images here. It is planned to give MRCE ES 64 F4-403 and -405 the same livery soon.
Until now, several locomotives sported the ISC logos, but never the complete livery. Well, one locomotive did, only on one side, and only for a promotional picture. The locomotive used for this photo shoot was Alpha Trains 483 004. We once made a picture of the picture in the booth of ISC.
On 01.04.2016, the five ES64F4 locomotives that PKP Cargo has given back to lease company MRCE arrived at the Polish-German border. Today ES 64 F4-152, 802, 804, 805 and 842 were seen in Nordhausen.
MRCE ES64F4
2016-03-21
[PL] PKP Cargo: Where Vectrons come, ES64F4s have to go
update 2016|03|21
[PL] PKP Cargo: Where Vectrons come, ES64F4s have to go
Currently, new Vectrons are being delivered to PKP Cargo. So others have to leave the fleet. MRCE ES64F4 / EU45-152, -802, -804, -805 and -842 are being prepared for their return to the leasing company, after several years of international services. The lime and blue colored PKP Cargo livery is already gone. All machines are black again, as shown in this facebook post.
However, it is not the end of ES64F4s in the PKP Cargo fleet. ES 64 F4-205, homologated for the Netherlands, is still in use. Vectron's with the same homologation are expected to arrive late 2016 or in 2017. And don't forget about EU45-846, the only one of its type being sold to PKP Cargo. [edit] Also ES 64 F4-153 and -154 still in service (and colors) of PKP Cargo.
[EU] First Alpäzähmer in black: MRCE ES 64 F4-115 and -284 [updated]
update 2016|01|11
[EU] First Alpäzähmer in black: MRCE ES 64 F4-115 and -284 [updated]
MRCE ES 64 F4-115 and -284 will be the first black locomotives that will 'tame the Alps". Both machines are currently hired to SBB Cargo International, that is applying the 'Alpäzähmer' slogan to several of its locomotives. However, until now only blue and red SBB Re 482 series locomotives were running around taming the Alps. (SBB Cargo International / Frank Leurs)
PKP Cargo has announced it is taking over all rail transport services for PKN ORLEN / Euronaft Trzebinia. These companies sell their in house transport activities and refocus on their core business, oil and chemicals. For our website, this means ORLEN Koltrans is taken over by PKP Cargo, that is actively increasing its market share in the European railfreight market. (pkpcargo.com)
[DE] MRCE ES 64 F4-150: old 2009 stickers visible again
update 2015|10|12
[DE] MRCE ES 64 F4-150: old 2009 stickers visible again
MRCE ES 64 F4-150 is now hired to DB Schenker. Remarkable: after removing the AWT stickers, to old Siemens promo stickers of 2009 are visibly again, well, what is left of them, that is. (Arne Schuessler)
New stickers for MRCE > TX Logistik ES 64 F4-287 now promoting the -Rotterdam Bayern Express-. (Thomas Girstenbrei)
The design of the stickers is similar to the vynils applied to MRCE > RTB Cargo ES 64 F4-209, -285 and -103. Anyone can tell us of the 103 (that was last seen in Italy by ISC) still has these stickers?
We already made notice of DB Schenker hiring several Vectron locomotives from MRCE (X4 E-865, 874, 879 and meanwhile also the new -602 and -866 are mentioned) for its freight services. Now also two MRCE ES 64 F4 machines are added to the DB Schenker fleet. Different sightings confirmed ES 64 F4-157 and -841 in action for the German freight operator.
True, DB Schenker used ES64F4s already in the past, especially for freight services in and to Poland, but they were all returned to MRCE as there are many retrofitted 189s available now, from DB Schenker's own fleet.
[EU] MRCE Es 64 F4-024 back in black after Brenner accident in December 2013
update 2015|05|08
[EU] MRCE Es 64 F4-024 back in black after Brenner accident in December 2013
One we did not have yet. The image above shows MRCE ES 64 F4-024 in fresh new paint and additional logos of freight operator TX Logistik. Since December 2013 this machine was out of service after a shunting accident at Brennero station, together with MRCE ES 64 U2-098. The machines ran into a concrete stopper.
After the accident the 024 was parked at Innsbruck for quite a while, before it was repaired and repainted at the SBB Bellinzona works in Switzerland. In February 2015 we already showed you a picture of the machine at Bellinzona but we did not see it in service yet. Does anyone know since when the 024 officially is back?
[NL] MRCE ES 64 F4-209 -European gateway Services-
update 2015|04|21
[NL] MRCE ES 64 F4-209 -European gateway Services-
MRCE ES 64 F4-103 and -285 have European Gateway Services stickers. They got them in October 2013, when they were both running for RTB Cargo. But -103 is now in Italy, hired to Interporto Servizi Cargo. Now ES 64 F4-209, since this year in service of RTB Cargo, got the same stickers.
MRCE > LTE ES 64 F4-156 with new stickers, heading a freight train with 193 813. LGAG 41185 Passau > Hegyeshalom. - CE
MRCE ES64F4
2015-03-10
[IT] Trenitalia logos for MRCE ES 64 F4-032 and -108
update 2015|03|10
[IT] Trenitalia logos for MRCE ES 64 F4-032 and -108
In Italy, many locomotives that are operated by the Cargo (freight) division of Trenitalia, are made easy to identify by their yellow stickers, at every corner of their cabs. Meanwhile, MRCE ES 64 F4-032 and -108 have them too. - MS/MT/MS
[CZ] LokoTrain receives first Vectron locomotive (ELL 193 220) [updated]
update 2015|03|06
[CZ] LokoTrain receives first Vectron locomotive (ELL 193 220) [updated]
This is the new 193 220, the first ELL locomotive to be leased to LokoTrain from the Czech Republic. The multi system locomotives replaces MRCE ES 64 F4-841 that was returned to the lessor per 28.02.2015.
Today, the locomotive will be officially presented. LokoTrain will get three Vectron locomotives in total to be delivered this spring. The 220 is a MS version of the Vectron, homologated for Germany, Poland, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary. The machines also feature ETCS.
Is this an indicator for the long awaited fleet renewal of Trenitalia's fright division? Just speculation, but fact is, as of now, Trenitalia is hiring two ES 64 F4 locomotives from MRCE: 189 108 and 189 932.
Both machines arrived in Italy via Verona. They arrived in their new depot, Milano-Smistamento, on 02.03.2015. Trenitalia will use the locomotives on domestic services, such as the intermodal maritime shuttles on the Tirrenica line (Genova - Rome) and several trains to Chiasso and in and around Milan. It is expected that Trenitalia will get eight more locomotives
Picture on the left shows the two locos on their way to their first freight train, in Verona Santa Lucia depot. The second photo shows 189 108 with a freight train from Chiasso to Milano-Smistamento.
The WLE has hired MRCE ES 64 F4-453. The locomotive got orange stickers and a WLE inventory number: 82. - MT
MRCE ES64F4
2015-02-01
[CH] MRCE ES 64 F4-024 back in black after accident
update 2015|02|01
[CH] MRCE ES 64 F4-024 back in black after accident
In December 2013, MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-024 had an accident at Brenner station. It hit a concrete stopper with a ES 64 U2 locomotive in its back. Now the locomotive has been repaired and repainted at the SBB Bellinzona workshops.
[EU] PKP Cargo: new tender for 15+5 MS locomotives (replaces previous tender for 10+5)
update 2015|01|12
[EU] PKP Cargo: new tender for 15+5 MS locomotives (replaces previous tender for 10+5)
PKP Cargo has opened a tender to buy 20 multi-system locomotives to serve cross-border rail connections. Five of them are optional. The value of the contract will be approximately PLN 400 million. Poland’s biggest rail carrier will deploy the first new locomotives in H2 2016. They will pull trains to Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Hungary and the Netherlands. After the acquisition of the Czech carrier AWT for close to PLN 400 million, this is yet another step which consolidates the international position of the second largest freight carrier in the European Union.
Originally PKP Cargo considered the acquisition of ten multi-system locomotives with an option of buying another five; however, in view of the electrification of the border crossing with Germany at Węgliniec, it has decided to acquire 15 locomotives with an option of buying another five.
“The acquisition of multi-system locomotives is a milestone for PKP Cargo, especially in the context of the recently announced acquisition of the Czech carrier AWT. As we are expanding our international business, we are investing in new rolling stock. While we initially considered buying ten locomotives, we are now opening a tender for 15 multi-system locomotives with an option of buying another five. This will strengthen PKP Cargo’s capacity of operating international rail connections,” says Wojciech Derda, Board Member in charge of Operations at PKP Cargo.
The first two new locomotives approved for Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Germany and Austria will join PKP Cargo’s rolling stock in August 2016 and the last one, in March 2017. The tender covers full maintenance of the locomotives up to and including the first revision repair (level P4). A revision repair takes place after eight years of operation or a mileage of 1.2 mn km. A potential decision to acquire further locomotives may be made following an analysis of demand for such rolling stock.
PKP Cargo will require the vendor to have experience in the production of electric locomotives as well as type approval in at least one of the countries where the new locomotives will operate. This will ensure the highest quality of contract performance. The contract will have in place mechanisms which protect PKP Cargo against potential downtime of the locomotives, such as technical readiness and reliability indicators. Non-performance of the indicators will entail the payment of damages to PKP Cargo in order to cover the cost of substitution rolling stock.
The company previously owned only one multi-system locomotive (railcolor: EU45-846) and operated the others under operating lease. The solution allowed PKP Cargo to respond promptly and flexibly to changing conditions of transports and to obtain foreign safety certificates. Thanks to the certificates, PKP Cargo can operate transports single-handedly in nine European Union member states. At this time, PKP Cargo’s utilisation of multi-level locomotives has stabilised. Acquisition is the best option under these circumstances.
PKP Cargo’s existing multi-system locomotives
The first multi-system locomotives used by PKP Cargo from 2008 were EU43 (Traxx) machines produced by Bombardier. The carrier owned six such locomotives which operated transports between Poland and Germany. In 2012, the Bombardier locomotives were replaced with EU45 (EuroSprinter) machines produced by Siemens. Currently PKP Cargo uses ten such locomotives. They pull trains with containers, cars, steel, coal, coke, iron ore, chips, and car parts, among others. They run in the three main corridors: Poland-Czech Republic-Austria, Poland-Germany-Netherlands, and Germany-Poland-Czech Republic-Slovakia-Hungary.
PKP Cargo in 13 European countries
PKP Cargo will have access to 13 European markets after closing the acquisition of Advanced World Transport (AWT). Slovenia, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Romania will join the group of serviced countries: Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, the Netherlands, Hungary, and Lithuania. Apart from multi-system locomotives, PKP Cargo uses other types of locomotives for international transports. Diesel locomotives are used in Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Lithuania. PKP Cargo deploys single-system electric locomotives in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
A carrier may enter a foreign market subject to obtaining a safety certificate issued by the local regulator. The procedure is similar in all European Union member states but it is conducted on a case-by-case basis. One of the requirements for a certificate to be issued is to operate locomotives approved in the given country. PKP Cargo has had its ET22 and ET41 electric locomotives and ST44 and SM42 diesel locomotives approved in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, among others.
PKP Cargo trains are driven by Polish train drivers in three countries: the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Germany. To drive a train abroad, train drivers are required to pass a language examination and get local train driver certification. PKP Cargo uses the services of third-party drivers in the other countries.
[IT] MRCE ES 64 F4-103 -European Gateway Services- in Italy
update 2015|01|08
[IT] MRCE ES 64 F4-103 -European Gateway Services- in Italy
Interporto Servizi Cargo is now hiring MRCE ES 64 F4-103. Previously this locomotive was a common sight in the Netherlands. The locomotive still has its vinyls from its previous operator RTB Cargo promoting European Gateway Services. - MS
MRCE ES64F4
When the current plans with the Traxx MS locomotives are continued, this scene will soon be history again. Since August 2014 two MRCE ES 64 F4 locomotives are being used by the Dutch railways (NS) to bring the CityNightLine trains from Amsterdam to Emmerich (DE) vv. Within weeks the Macquarie Rail 186 148 and 149 should take-over these services.
NS ES 64 F4-289 with CNL 418/40418 "Pollux" just arrived at Amsterdam Centraal Station with +55 on the snowy Saturday 27th of December 2014. LvdS
MRCE ES64F4
2014
2014-12-27
[DE/AT/IT] SBB ES 64 F4-282 in service for Lokomotion
update 2014|12|27
[DE/AT/IT] SBB ES 64 F4-282 in service for Lokomotion
[DE/PL] DB Schenker in Poland: red 189s replace the black ones
update 2014|12|27
[DE/PL] DB Schenker in Poland: red 189s replace the black ones
DB Schenker has returned its black ES 64 F4-45x lease locomotives to MRCE. Those machines were used in Poland. They are replaced by DB Schenker's own 189s, that have recently been retrofitted with the class189-VM 50Hz package.
[CZ] LokoTrain MRCE ES 64 F4-841 pulls the RegioJet
update 2014|11|06
[CZ] LokoTrain MRCE ES 64 F4-841 pulls the RegioJet
It is not the first time a RegioJet-trein is pulled by an 'external' locomotive, but its the first time we see the ES 64 F4-841 doing this. This black locomotive was recently hired to LokoTrain and just got new logos.
Yesterday, RegioJet locomotive no. 162.114 broke down so the black one was stand-in for IC1010 (Zabreh na Morave - Prague). The 841 also pulled the IC1015 Prague – Navsi and IC1002 Navsi – Prague. - MG/JP/MS
MRCE ES64F4
2014-10-22
[NL] The MRCE ES64F4s hired to the Dutch railways [updated]
update 2014|10|22
[NL] The MRCE ES64F4s hired to the Dutch railways [updated]
Currently, MRCE hires two ES 64 F4-locomotives to the Dutch railways (NS). These black machines are used for hauling the City Night Line trains from Amsterdam to Emmerich (- Munich, - Basel or - Zurich). Previously this was done with NS 1700 electrics, but since last summer, these yellow machines can no longer run to Emmerich as the Dutch ATB train detection system was switched of between Zevenaar (NL) and Emmerich (DE), the final part of the route. Now the trains have to use ETCS.
Dispite the fact that the ES 64 F4s are multi system locomotives, the NS ES 64 F4s are taken of the trains in Emmerich and replaced by other locomotives with higher top speeds.
Medio 2014 two ES 64 F4s became available to the NS: ES 64 F4-289 and -290. After driver instructions they were used to pull the trains to Emmerich. The images above show both locomotives at this German station.
[Update] Since September, things changed again. Both the 289 and 290 were replaced by two other MRCE machines of the same type: ES 64 F4-106 and -995. Just now, the -290 has replaced the -106 again. - DH
MRCE ES64F4
2014-10-18
[CZ] Lokotrain hires MRCE ES 64 F4-841 [edit]
update 2014|10|18
[CZ] Lokotrain hires MRCE ES 64 F4-841 [edit]
Lokotrain from Česká Třebová (CZ) is now hiring MRCE locomotive ES 64 F4-841. It is the first time this operator works with a MRCE electric (edit: directly), until now it predominantly relied on PKP Cargo (EU45, also from MRCE of course or ET22) machines. First revenue service with the new locomotive took place on 11.10.2014, when the 841 pulled a freight train for IDS Cargo (Leuna - Dunai).
The title picture shows the 841 with a temporary 'Lokotrain badge' during its transfer from München-Laim to Decin on 10.10.2014. - MS/railvolution.netMRCE ES64F4
2014-10-14
[DE] Again, a V250 goes home
update 2014|10|14
[DE] Again, a V250 goes home
MRCE > TX Logistik ES 64 F4-281 pulls a V250 train set, bound for Italy. - DK
MRCE ES64F4
2014-09-27
[EU] Railcolor Short
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
[EU] ES 64 F4s with SBB Cargo International logos [updatex2]
update 2014|09|08
[EU] ES 64 F4s with SBB Cargo International logos [updatex2]
SBB Cargo International wants to increase its visibility on the EU freight corridors. So it is putting its logos on ten MRCE ES 64 F4 freight locomotives. In total SBB Cargo International is hiring 14 such machines.
Update: These are the ten locomotives with SBB Cargo International logos:
ES 64 F4-082, -083, -084, -091, -096, -102, -107, -112, -282 and -288. - SBB Cargo
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.
Today, the remains of MRCE ES 64 F4-204 arrived at Dessau by road transport. Further information is not available yet.
This locomotive was severly damaged by fire after its crash in Blecherode on 21.09.2011. Since then it was parked, partially covered by plastic wrapping in Nordhausen.
MRCE ES64F4
2014-07-31
[NL] MRCE>Freightliner PL ES 64 F4-201 got a name: Koos
update 2014|07|31
[NL] MRCE>Freightliner PL ES 64 F4-201 got a name: Koos
This shows the power of the internet, the power of Railcolor and the power of our visitors. MRCE locomotive, hired to Freightliner Poland, got a name this afternoon: Koos. Now we can already show the locomotive in revenue service, twice! Thank you!
MRCE ES 64 F4-096 is the next locomotive of its type that has been repainted in black. Previously this machine was yellow and silver sporting the logos of TX Logistik. It is not in service of SBB Cargo International. Note that the machine has not received any MRCE logos yet. - YH
The are becoming rare, locomotives in the livery of Siemens Dispolok. But this does not stop ERS Railways of putting its logos on ES 64 F4-202.
MRCE ES64F4
2014-07-03
[DE] The newly stickered ES 64 F4-212/213
update 2014|07|03
[DE] The newly stickered ES 64 F4-212/213
Fresh stickers, sun and a loaded freight train. Recent portraits of ERS Railways/Freightliner PL ES 64 F4-212/213 'Linked by Rail'
[PL/NL] Dutch King reveils 'Linked by Rail' locomotives
update 2014|06|26
[PL/NL] Dutch King reveils 'Linked by Rail' locomotives
The Dutch king Willem-Alexander is currently paying Poland an official 'state' visit. Part of its tour was a visit to the Clip logistics center in the Polish city of Swarzędz. There he attended the presentation of a special livery on two MRCE ES 64 F4 series locomotives: ES 64 F4-212 and ES 64 F4-213. As these machines connect both countries by rail directly, they are an ideal way of showing the trade relations between both countries..
The livery of 212/213 celebrates both the second anniversary of the Rotterdam - Swarzędz freight shuttle and the first anniversary of the PIR consortium. The Rotterdam - Swarzędz services are executed by ERS Railways in the Netherlands and in Germany. In Poland, Freightliner PL takes over. Both companies are property of Freightliner from the UK.
After the ceremony, a special train pulled by ES 64 F4 -212 took the royals and other representatives back to Poznan Glowny:
Images made by Konrad Czapracki. Additional: a video of the ES 64 F4-212:
A unique combination of locomotives, yesterday during the celebrating of '150 jaar spoorwegen in Zwolle'. Many of them are Locon Benelux locomotives. This company has its home base in the place in the north of the Netherlands. - HZ
MRCE ES64F4
2014-05-07
[CH] ES 64 F4-024 to Bellinzona
update 2014|05|07
[CH] ES 64 F4-024 to Bellinzona
These images, made on [edit] 24.04.2014, show MRCE locomotive ES 64 F4-024 ready for transport to the Bellinzona [CH] workshops. There the machine will be repaired. - AB
The machine was damaged after running through a buffer stop in Brenner railway station on 18.12.2013. So it was already waiting for repairs for four months.
MRCE ES64F4
2014-04-20
[AT] ES 64 F4-096 will get a repaint
update 2014|04|20
[AT] ES 64 F4-096 will get a repaint
MRCE ES 64 F4-096 has lost its TX Logistik logos.
Yesterday, the locomotive was transported to Passau. Soon it will go to Linz were it will be repainted in black.
MRCE ES64F4
2014-03-25
[EU] MRCE ES 64 F4-032: Bosporus stickers removed [updated]
update 2014|03|25
[EU] MRCE ES 64 F4-032: Bosporus stickers removed [updated]
After a main revision in Munich (REV MMAL 20.02.2014), MRCE locomotive ES 64 F4-032 was sent to Bw1 in the same city where it got its special Bosporus stickers removed. It was then partially repainted so its livery now complies with the MRCE standard. Since 19.03.2014 the locomotive is hired to Captrain Deutschland. - JB/KAR/TH
MRCE ES64F4
2014-03-23
[EU] ES 64 F4-843 with LTE logos
update 2014|03|23
[EU] ES 64 F4-843 with LTE logos
LTE is an open access freight operator and very active in central and Eastern Europe. With MRCE ES 64 F4 locomotives the companies crosses countries such as Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria and Germany. This image shows MRCE ES 64 F4-843 now making very clear for which company it is running.
Other F4 locomotives running for LTE at this moment are for example MRCE ES 64 F4-155, -156 and -158. The two latter ones sport LTE logos on both fronts.
MRCE ES64F4
2014-03-08
[DK] Status of MRCE ES 64 F4-115 [updated]
update 2014|03|08
[DK] Status of MRCE ES 64 F4-115 [updated]
On 08.03.2014, ES 64 F4-115 was transported from Padborg (DK) to Germany where it will be taken to the workshops of Dessau. The locomotive was in Padborg since medio December 2013, parked behind the Contect workshops. The machine was damaged by an accident on 30.11.2013. - DSO/AS
MRCE ES64F4
2014-01-06
[EU] The end of HTRS (Husa)
update 2014|01|06
[EU] The end of HTRS (Husa)
Rail freight operator HTRS, part of the the Husa Transportation Group, will cease to exist. Husa will no longer run its own trains. HTRS Nederland will be dismantled and HTRS Süd from Munich will be sold. Husa will continue its logistic freight activities, but for rail transport it will rely on its current partners from now on.
Rob van Gansewinkel, founder of Husa, states it is no longer interesting to run its own freight trains. Infrastructure fees have become too high. Unlike inland shipping, the rail operator is charged directly for the use of the infrastructure, which is regarded as unfair by Mr. van Gansewinkel. As a result, one of the last independent rail operators in the Netherlands, has to withdraw.
The company has been active in rail freight for 10 years. It started with Van Gansewinkel taking over Dutch operator ACTS. A few years ago the company was reformed and rebranded as Husa Transportation Group. Two German operators were added to the organization, that became known for its attractive orange and blue locomotive fleet. Core of the livery design was a abstract silhouette of a goose (Husa is the Czech word for goose, the Dutch word for goose is gans > Van Gansewinkel). - nieuwsbladtransport.nl /
transport-online.nl
Normally, PKP Cargo uses two ES 64 F4 locomotive to haul its no. 40505 (Breclav - Tarvisio Boscoverde) service. Today, an extra locomotive was taken along, resulting in this image, with ES 64 F4-154, -153 and -842 (out of service) heading the train Gramatneusiedl. - HP
MRCE ES64F4
2013-12-03
[DE] Train crash Padborg - Flensburg: the aftermath [updated]
update 2013|12|03
[DE] Train crash Padborg - Flensburg: the aftermath [updated]
ES 64 F4-115 was photographed last Saturday. It's final run, for now.
On 30.11.2013 two freight trains collided at low speed. The accident happened between Padborg and Flensburg. One locomotive driver was mildly injured. The tracks were cleared very rapidly so the accident did not cause any delays to other services. The images show the damage to locomotive ES 64 F4-115.
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 189MRCE ES64F4
2013-11-19
[HU] ES 64 F4-153 in Hungary
update 2013|11|19
[HU] ES 64 F4-153 in Hungary
About a month ago, ES 64 F4-153 completed its maiden run in Hungary and got permission to start services in this country. Since then, it makes commercial runs from Budapest to Sturovo and beyond, for example. - RJ/LG
MRCE ES64F4
[NL/DE] MRCE ES 64 F4-103 and -285 -European Gateway Services-
update 2013|10|27
[NL/DE] MRCE ES 64 F4-103 and -285 -European Gateway Services-
Since this month, two MRCE locomotives sport -European Gateway Services- vinyls: ES 64 F4-103 and -285, both hired to RTB Cargo. - AS/WT
About European Gateway Services: "The trains of European Gateway Services running between the Maasvlakte and the inland terminal TCT Venlo (NL). The trains run four times a day in both directions. Since the spring of 2013, Rurtalbahn (RTB Cargo) has been the partner of European Gateway Services for the rail transport between Rotterdam and Venlo.
MRCE ES64F4
2013-10-21
[SK] Modern electrics & Metrans
update 2013|10|21
[SK] Modern electrics & Metrans
Operator Metrans is slowly but steadily expanding its fleet of electric multi system locomotives. An overview of all Bombardier Traxx and Siemens ES 64 F4 locomotives in service of Metrans:
hired from Alpha Trains > 185 510 and 511
Railpool locomotives: 186 141, 181, 182, 183, 187, 275, 289, and 291
MRCE > ES 64 F4-157 and -159
Since 02.09.2013, the EU45/ES 64 F4/189 series of PKP Cargo are allowed to enter the Italian border station of Tarvisio Boscoverde, close to the border with Austria. The images show ES 64 F4-151 and -842 in Italy with train TEC 40506, soon to depart for Villach. - CT
The different railway authorities have granted PKP Cargo security certificates for Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany and Slovakia. The approval for the Netherlands is pending. Now PKP Cargo will be able to pick up the new Pendolino trainsets for PKP IC at the Italian border.
DB Schenker Rail Polska has started operating MRCE ES 64 F4-locomotives. The picture shows machine 454 in Zawiercie Borowe Pole. - GK
MRCE ES64F4
2013-06-02
[PL] DB Schenker Rail Polska hires ES 64 F4 locomotives
update 2013|06|02
[PL] DB Schenker Rail Polska hires ES 64 F4 locomotives
DB Schenker Rail Polska is hiring ES 64 F4-45x locomotives from MRCE, until the new Vectron locomotives arrive. At least four machines, no. 451, 453, 454 and 456 transferred from Lotos Kolej the DBSRP just before the weekend. Lotos Kolej has more Traxx locomotives to its disposal again as Koleje Slaskie, that was subhiring many Lotos Kolej Traxx-locomotives has ended all contracts. - GK
MRCE ES64F4
2013-05-18
[AT] PKP Cargo in Austria
update 2013|05|18
[AT] PKP Cargo in Austria
The picture shows ES 64 F4-153 and -842 in service for PKP Cargo, passing through in Himberg, Austria. PKP Cargo is now running its own trains in the Alp country as part of the Breclav-Villach route (heading for Italy). A second locomotive is needed for the steep climb from Gloggnitz to Semmering (the Semmeringbahn). - HP
MRCE ES64F4
2013-04-26
[DE/DK/SE] The first EN 300 Berlin-Malmö for this year
update 2013|04|26
[DE/DK/SE] The first EN 300 Berlin-Malmö for this year
The picture shows the first Berlin-Malmö service of 2013, also known as the EN 300. The coaches in the colours of Veolia are being hauled by ES 64 F4-008.
The shiny black locomotive replaces the GVG 109 series locomotive (GVG 109-3 to be more precise) that is still in Neustrelitz (DE) for a major overhaul. - SC
MRCE ES64F4
2013-04-23
[IT] The green era ends / ES 64 F4-093 leaves Nordcargo
update 2013|04|23
[IT] The green era ends / ES 64 F4-093 leaves Nordcargo
On 18.04.2013, MRCE ES 64 F4-093 completed its last day of service for Nordcargo/DB Schenker, to which it was hired since 2005. Its last duty took it from Chiasso to Montova Frassine.
Today it was returned to MRCE, without the green FN Cargo vinyls. The 093 was the last one to sport this livery, that also goes back to 2005. It had a R1 overhaul last year, but it kept its original livery, including the green stickers. Also ES 64 F4-088 and -099 had this livery, but these two have been repainted in black in the meantime.
Interesting fact is the mileage of the locomotive: up until 18.04.2013, it completed an impressive 1.600.000 km. - GR
MRCE ES64F4
The image show MRCE ES 64 F4-093 with steam locomotive 50 3673 (Yes there is also a steam locomotive database website!). The historic German engine payed a visit to Milano today, during a event organized by 'Associazione Verbano Express'. - DM
Problems for MRCE / AWT locomotive ES 64 F4-150. It lost a pantograph yesterday. PF
MRCE ES64F4
2013-03-04
[DE/PL] Four MRCE ES 64 F4-45x heading for Poland
update 2013|03|04
[DE/PL] Four MRCE ES 64 F4-45x heading for Poland
Today, four MRCE electric locomotives of the ES 64 F4-45x series were transported from the depot of Nordhausen to Frankfurt a/d Oder, near the Polish border. There, Polish operator Lotos Kolej took over the transport.
There are ten locomotives, number series ES 64 F4-450 to 459, originally delivered with the VP package, meaning they could only run in Poland. However, in 2012 MRCE decided to retrofit these machines with the additional equipment for Germany, Austria and Romania, meaning they now have the VH-package.
Although more VH-configured locomotives of this type are running in Germany, this does not mean the MRCE ES 64 F4-45x are automatically approved for this country. Since the retrofitting in 2012, that took place in Wegberg-Wildenrath, many of the MRCE machines were parked in the depot of Nordhausen, waiting for things to come. Until today. - DSO/KAR/CK
MRCE ES64F4
2013-02-23
[DE] Double PKP
update 2013|02|23
[DE] Double PKP
A mini line up of MRCE/PKP Cargo Logistics ES 64 F4-152 and -154. - SL
MRCE ES64F4
2013-01-14
[DE] HUSA 096-1 in Berlin [updated]
update 2013|01|14
[DE] HUSA 096-1 in Berlin [updated]
On 12.01.2013, Husa locomotive ES 64 F4-996 paid a visit to Berlin-Westhafen. It arrived with an experimental freight train from the Netherlands. - SC
In March Husa will start cacao transport from Amsterdam to Berlin-Moabit. Source.
MRCE ES64F4
2013-01-04
[DE] ES 64 F4-101 - running without a track
update 2013|01|04
[DE] ES 64 F4-101 - running without a track
MRCE ES 64 F4-101, operated by WLC, has crashed in Bremerhaven Hauptbahnhof. It ran nine meters through a buffer stop block. The reason is till unknown. Metal parts of the stop block damaged a passenger train passing by. Cost of the damage to the locomotive; 50.000 euro. Images here. - Ak
MRCE ES64F4
2012
2012-10-17
[DE] MRCE 189 204 in Nordhausen
update 2012|10|17
[DE] MRCE 189 204 in Nordhausen
A more recent image of MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-204, made in September in Betriebswerk Nordhausen. It is the first ES 64 F4 that faces scrapping. - RvE
MRCE ES64F4
2012-10-15
[CZ/AT] ES 64 F4-105 running for S4YOU
update 2012|10|15
[CZ/AT] ES 64 F4-105 running for S4YOU
Yesterday S4YOU, a new railway operator from Austria, ran a train (no.49988) from Hungary bound for Germany. Starting in HU/AT border station Hegyeshalom, TXL ES 64 F4-105 hauled the train. Behind the 105 one sees the 186 239 with CRS logos, part of the convoy. - HP
MRCE ES64F4
2012-10-11
[DE/PL] Package refit: MRCE ES64F4 VP > VH
update 2012|10|11
[DE/PL] Package refit: MRCE ES64F4 VP > VH
Currently, MRCE is having several ES 64 F4 series locomotives with the VP package refitted to VH. As VH they will be usable in Poland, Germany, Austria and Romania. The adjustments are done in Siemens testcenter in Wegberg-Wildenrath. In July 2012, ES 64 F4-457 was already relased as VH locomotive from Wegberg. Yesterday, ES 64 F4-458, 459 and 451 left the test tracks. - TW/MRCE
MRCE ES64F4
2012-08-20
[DE] ES 64 F4-008 in black
update 2012|08|20
[DE] ES 64 F4-008 in black
Only ten days after the completion of the R2 overhaul in Dessau: ES 64 F4-008 with LD X 09.08.2012. During its stay in Dessau it was also repainted in black. - NH
MRCE ES64F4
2012-08-13
[IT] ES 64 F4-402 in Milan Central Station
update 2012|08|13
[IT] ES 64 F4-402 in Milan Central Station
Today, ES 64 F4-402 arrived under the historical archway of Milan Central Station. This locomotive, hired to DB Schenker/Nordcargo, is being used for the Chiasso-Milano Centrale line study for SAD instructors. - ML
MRCE ES64F4
2012-08-11
[RO] ES 64 F4-453 now also ready for Romania [updated]
update 2012|08|11
[RO] ES 64 F4-453 now also ready for Romania [updated]
In July, the people who visited Wegberg-Wildenrath, may have seen MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-453 in one of the sheds. This week, the engine left the test center via Mönchengladbach. It has a new package and now represents the VH-configuration, but with additional RO-approval, so: DE/AT/PL/RO.
The main service numbers remained the same, but the 453 now has a Polish NVR-number. The small logos and markings of Freighliner Poland (FPL) are still on the locomotive. Curious because ITL Polska is reported being the next lessor for this engine. - PH/KAR/WS
[DE] Railcolor Report: open door day in Wegberg-Wildenrath
update 2012|07|03
[DE] Railcolor Report: open door day in Wegberg-Wildenrath
On 01.07.2012, Siemens invited everyone to come and take a look at its Wegberg-Wildenrath test center. Visitors could run the T2 and T3 test oval with Schienenbusse and a Belgian Desiro-ML. There was a world attempt with BRIO-tracks. Girls were extracting DNA from unions etc etc. There were many Siemens trains standing around. Some open for public, others hidden in the background. We wouldn't be surprized of all 15 Velaro-D trainsets were present. The same for many Desiro-ML trainsets (for example 08521, 08523) and locomotives for Belgium. Trams were being repaired after heavy crashes, locomotives were refitted with ETCS. Much to see. A big thanks to Siemens to give us this opportunity. Our report of the day:
EuroSprinter for sale! (black vs. white)
For anyone still interested: Siemens still has three 189 series locomotives for sale: E 189 845, 822 and 823. All three were present during the day, parked next to a black one: ES 64 F4-995.
PCW Thunderbirds are go!
In Wegberg, Siemens has several locomotives used for shunting. The have PCW numbers. PCW 6 is a red Vossloh G800BB, PCW 7 is the EuroRunner and the EuroSprinter godfather is now PCW 8. The question however still remains, will PCW 8 ever run again? For two years now, the machine is parked in Wegberg, have some sort of damage... PCW 7 presented itself in two different sizes. However, the model was a silver scale locomotive, with small inkjet-printed paper logos and graphics.
Everybody Vectron!
A long waiting queue was there all day. Everybody wanted to climb into Vectron 193 922, parked outside. We did not go in, but made some nice close-ups of the exterior and some impressions. Again a tip for everyone looking for works numbers (193 924 = SMP 21697) of Siemens locomotives: go to cab no.1, check the frame right above the right buffer. Good luck!
Hide and seek
Some locomotives did not like all the attention. One had to know what to look for to find them. All in the back of the halls we could see 193 901 (the only Vectron now with the old, Belgian front bow) and Rail One's 474 102. Hidden in the bush outside, two Traxx locomotives were spotted; 186 121 (edit) in Fyra-colors and IGT 246 011 still celebrating German's 150th railways anniversary. Behind ES 64 F4-453 we could identify ES 64 F4-409 and Nordcargo 474 201. - DvdR
SNCB 19 vs Vectron and the auto-coupler
Around fifteen HLE 19 series locomotives were seen in Wegberg. The 1909, 1906 and 1913 were in front of the public. We took the opportunity to make some good close-ups of 1906 and its Schwab-coupler system, that what makes the HLE19 different from its normal HLE18 sisters. Also note the special steel, futuristic construction behind it.
[PL/CZ] next one in PKP Cargo livery: ES 64 F4-154
update 2012|05|28
[PL/CZ] next one in PKP Cargo livery: ES 64 F4-154
Now we see the first VM-configurated ES 64 F4 locomotive, hire to PKP Cargo Logistics, in the blue and lime livery. - MS
MRCE ES64F4
2012-05-20
[PL/DE/NL] PKP Cargo Logistics livery for ES 64 F4-205 + 805
update 2012|05|20
[PL/DE/NL] PKP Cargo Logistics livery for ES 64 F4-205 + 805
PKP Cargo Logistics has decided that their ES 64 F4 locomotives get the current blue and lime Cargo livery. We are glad they did. ES 64 F4-805 (main picture) and ES 64 F4-205 (now a 'tweety in disguise') are the first units that have been restyled. - SL
With the 205, PKP Cargo Logistics has one locomotive homologated for services in the Netherlands. It made its debute in this country yesterday, in its fresh new look. The locomotive went to Rotterdam, a service in cooperation with ERS Railways. - FG/MvE
MRCE's ES 64 F4-087 is the first black electric in service for Interporto Servizi Cargo that now actually wears the logos of its operator.
MRCE ES64F4
2012-04-21
[NL] ES 64 F4-285 'Hanzelijn'
update 2012|04|21
[NL] ES 64 F4-285 'Hanzelijn'
We have already reported about MRCE ES 64 F4-285 being test locomotive for the new Hanzelijn in the Netherlands, connecting Lelystad and Zwolle. Some new impressions. Next to that, the 285 has got some extra vinyls with ProRail logos and 'de Hanzelijn verbindt' ('the Hanzelijn connects'). - CR/SH
MRCE ES64F4
2012-03-16
[IT] now also ES64F4s with new CFI logos
update 2012|03|16
[IT] now also ES64F4s with new CFI logos
The new CFI logos work much better on black MRCE locomotives than old, hard to distinguish, red ones. - FM/MS
MRCE ES64F4
2012-03-09
[DE/PL/CZ/SK/HU] PKP Cargo ES64F4s in Eastern Europe
update 2012|03|09
[DE/PL/CZ/SK/HU] PKP Cargo ES64F4s in Eastern Europe
We already informed you about PKP Cargo Logistics replacing its colorful Traxx locomotives with ES64F4 electrics leased from MRCE. This week the sixth and last addition to the fleet arrived at the German-Polish border: the yellow ES 64 F4-205. PKP now uses five of them for services to and from Germany (Wustermark, Aachen, Ruhland); ES 64 F4-205, -802, -803, -804 and -805.
ES 64 F4-842 recently transferred to the Czech Republic to assist the EU45-846 and ES 64 F4-153 and -154. These machines are used for car transports from Petrovice u Karviné (PL-CZ border) to Breclav (CZ-AT border). Coal transports are hauled to Rajka [HU] via Slovakia. - FG/PS
MRCE ES64F4
2012-03-08
[NL] electric ES 64 F4-285 on the Hanzelijn
update 2012|03|08
[NL] electric ES 64 F4-285 on the Hanzelijn
On 12.12.2012, a new railway connection will be opened officially in the Netherlands; the Hanzelijn. (First revenue services will start on 09.12.2012). The new section, under construction since 2007, will connect the city of Lelystad with Zwolle. The Hanzelijn is a new and shorter route between the Randstad and the Dutch northern regios.
Traveling time between Amsterdam and Groningen will be reduced with 20 minutes. Next to that, the route will release the pressure on the busy Amsterdam – Amersfoort ('Gooilijn') line. Since 05.03.2012, a electric locomotive is running on the new track sections; MRCE locomotive ES 64 F4-285. Previous tests involved a diesel locomotive (DB Schenker 6400 / Strukton G1206). Rumors go around that even more exotic rolling stock will visit the line soon, including foreign high speed trains. We will see...
We can now officially say that MRCE has yet again expanded its fleet with five stock locomotives from Siemens. This time five machines with a VH-configuration join the fleet; ES 64 F4-802 to 806. MRCE did not have this configuration type (DE-AT-PL) in its fleet anymore.
The livery of the machines (well 802, 803, and 804) is slightly different compared to most other MRCE ES64F4s in black. The white area up front is different, most likely a result of the fact that these machines originally were delivered in white. It is easier to just keep the front white as it was, and add a red surface, than to paint it it black and then make it white again.
The pictures show 802, 803 and 804 on their way to Poland. The first lessor of these machines is PKP Cargo SA. The locomotives will replace the EU43s hired from Alpha Trains. - FG
[Update/edit] On 20.01.2011, locomotive 805 and 806 arrived at the paint shops in Berlin. - DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2012-01-10
[CZ] Siemens ES64F4 now 'homologated' for the Czech Republic
update 2012|01|10
[CZ] Siemens ES64F4 now 'homologated' for the Czech Republic
Zelpage.cz informs us on the homologation of Siemens' ES64F4 platform in the Czech Republic. The modern electrics are now more or less generally homologated for this country. Up till now, all runs with these machines in this country were filed under 'test operation'.
However, the ES64F4 is a modern electric, and like all other types it can cause problems on track sections with detecting systems working with 25 Hz frequencies, thus local restrictions will remain necessary. The CZ-rail transport authority will address all problem areas in the upcoming days.
For the Skoda 109E, Plzen main station, Kutna Hora, and Veselí nad Lužnicí - Nemanice route are considered being problematic. The Siemens ES64U4 (1216 series) that run to Pragua, are only approved for the transit railway corridor from Dresden [DE] via Decin, Prague, Brno to Vienna [AT].
Today, PKP Cargo Logistics recieved a ES 64 F4 locomotive from MRCE; ES 64 F4-842. More will follow...
MRCE ES64F4
2011
2011-12-07
[EU] MRCE ES 64 F4-101 restickered as VL
update 2011|12|07
[EU] MRCE ES 64 F4-101 restickered as VL
The Siemens ES 64 F4-locomotive is now also approved for Belgium. This means that the technical inscriptions on most of the units from subserie 101-115 need to be changed again (version VE > VL). The image shows locomotive ES 64 F4-101 as official VL-locomotive. - DM
MRCE ES64F4
2011-11-07
[BE] Siemens ES64F4-VL homologated for Belgium [edited]
update 2011|11|07
[BE] Siemens ES64F4-VL homologated for Belgium [edited]
From the Siemens Rail Systems news letter from today: The Eurosprinter ES64F4 has also passed homologation for Belgium. This means that the VL variant of the Siemens ES64F4 locomotive can now operate in as many as six countries: Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland – and now also in Belgium. The locomotives are prepared for revenue service in the entire freight corridor that stretches from the so-called ARA ports (Antwerp, Rotterdam and Amsterdam) as far as Genoa. The variants available so far were not able to provide a link to Antwerp.
Railcolor comment: MRCE has ordered fifteen locomotives with the VL-package; numbered ES 64 F4-101 to 115. At this moment, most of them are hired to different operators such as Captrain and TXL. They have been delivered to MRCE as version VE, as it took too long to finish the homologation process for Belgium. They were needed to haul freight trains of course. Let's see what the influence will be of the 189 on freight transport in Belgium, for modern electrics the exclusive domain of Bombardier's Traxx MS up till now.
[edit]: Another important remark to this approval is that it is restricted to 3kV DC and 15kV AC voltage systems only. That means the 189 can not run on the Athus-Meuse line, a serieus restriction for open access freight operators for services to the south. Next to that, the 189s can also not be used on the Belgium high-speed lines, as the required TBL2 detection system is not implemented. - YG
Wallorail.be mentions that Siemens would like to have the VL machines homologated for Luxembourg and France too.
MRCE ES64F4
2011-10-20
[CH] Bellinzona workshops working on MRCE ES 64 F4-088
update 2011|10|20
[CH] Bellinzona workshops working on MRCE ES 64 F4-088
The Bellinzona workshops are busy with overhauling ES 64 F4 locomotives for MRCE. Today, the freshly repainted ES 64 F4-088 was seen outside. It doesn't have technical inscriptions yet. - MG
Next ones are ES 64 F4-095 and 096... - DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2011-09-27
[DE] accident in Bleicherode - MRCE ES 64 F4-204 (2)
update 2011|09|27
[DE] accident in Bleicherode - MRCE ES 64 F4-204 (2)
On the evening of 21.09.2011, two freight trains collided at Bleicherode, Germany. HUPAC freight train 91117 (HUPAC) crashed onto another waiting train. The HUPAC train was hauled by MRCE ES 64 F4-204, hired to Captrain. The locomotive is almost completely destroyed by fire. It is the first ES 64 F4-locomotive that seems KO.
MRCE ES64F4
2011-09-22
[IT] ES 64 F4-105 TX Logistik Italia
update 2011|09|22
[IT] ES 64 F4-105 TX Logistik Italia
MRCE ES 64 F4-105 is the first locomotive with TXLI (TX Logistik Italia) markings. TXLI now has its own safety certificate in Italy, so that it can run trains under its own direction (and also without mother company Trenitalia...).
MRCE ES64F4
2011-09-22
[DE] severe train crash in Bleicherode
update 2011|09|22
[DE] severe train crash in Bleicherode
click this link. Freight train 91117 (HUPAC), loaded with chemicals and hauled by
MRCE ES 64 F4-204, has crashed onto another freight train. Several carriages exploded and caught fire, same for the locomotive. A train driver was injured. - tlz.de/DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2011-08-15
[DE] MRCE locomotives in service of DB Regio [update]
update 2011|08|15
[DE] MRCE locomotives in service of DB Regio [update]
Some things have changed to the MRCE fleet, running for DB Regio. ES 64 F4-031 and -150 have left. They were used for staff training only, including a training run to Sangerhausen. So ES 64 F4-842, - 843, and -844 are in use for the RB20 services. - DR
They are assisted by four ES 64 U2s now, as no. -018 has joined. This engine is still yellow and silver.
MRCE ES64F4MRCE ES64U2
2011-07-26
[DB] ES 64 F4 in service of DB Regio: kick-of tomorrow [update #3]
update 2011|07|26
[DB] ES 64 F4 in service of DB Regio: kick-of tomorrow [update #3]
update #3: first day is over, check out the first impressions of ES64F4s in service of DB Regio:
On 25.07.2011, the DB Regio services with MRCE 189s started. ES 64 F4-843 and -844 did the kick-of, the -031, -150 and -842 entered later on.
A discussion about these services can be found here.
Time table for the first day, two locomotives:
RB 20 Halle-Eisenach. Six services for every locomotive:
starting in Eisenach: 05:10, 06:10, 11:10, 12:13, 17:10, 18:13
starting in Halle: 08:22, 09:22, 14:22, 15:22, 20:22, 21:22 MRCE ES64F4
2011-07-16
[EU] new logo for MRCE - the end of Dispolok
update 2011|07|16
[EU] new logo for MRCE - the end of Dispolok
Since june 2011, the SBB works in Bellinzona overhaul twenty ES64F4 locomotives for MRCE Dispolok, or MRCE from now on. Today we got an image of ES 64 F4-016, freshly repainted in Bellinzona. It is the first machine, we know, that has new MRCE logos, without the additional Dispolok.
The new (old) name reflects an internal re-arrangement of the lease/rental and service activities of the company.
MRCE ES64F4
2011-06-18
[CH] the SBB workshops of Bellinzona outshops first overhauled MRCE ES64F4
update 2011|06|18
[CH] the SBB workshops of Bellinzona outshops first overhauled MRCE ES64F4
Yesterday, the first MRCE Dispolok ES64F4 locomotive was outshopped by the SBB Bellinzona workshops. In the upcoming time 20 units of this type will get a main revision at this location. Brake systems, bogies will be overhauled, the climate control will be replaced. Seven units will be repainted in the black colours of MRCE. - SBB
First units that were overhauled in Bellinzona:
ES 64 F4-091 REV Be 16.06.2011, repaint in black
ES 64 F4-016 REV Be 15.07.2011, repaint in black
ES 64 F4-097 REV Be 31.08.2011, repaint in black
ES 64 F4-088 REV Be 25.10.2011, repaint in black
ES 64 F4-095 REV Be 04.11.2011, no repaint - DSO
ES 64 F4-015 REV Be 28.11.2011, no repaint - MK
ES 64 F4-096 REV Be 12.12.2011, no repaint - DSO
ES 64 F4-024 REV Be 16.12.2011, no repaint - DSO
ES 64 F4-099 REV Be 10.04.2012, no repaint - DSO
ES 64 F4-026 REV Be 11.05.2012, no repaint
ES 64 F4-093 REV Be 20.09.2012, no repaint
MRCE ES64F4
2011-06-05
[DE] MRCE ES 64 F4-84x series
update 2011|06|05
[DE] MRCE ES 64 F4-84x series
The five latest additions to the MRCE fleet - renumbered ES 64 F4-840 to 844 - all have been repainted in black. The 840 and 841 run for ERS Railways (outside the Netherlands), the other three units were around Wegbweg-Wildenrath yesterday. - MO/WS
MRCE ES64F4
2011-05-13
[EU] MRCE Dispolok news
update 2011|05|13
[EU] MRCE Dispolok news
MRCE Dispolok also had several minor novelties at the fair in Munich. ETCS was the most prominent one. First there was the ES 64 F4-115, that has its ETCS interface integrated in the center monitor of its driver desk. Also, MRCE announced that Siemens will install ETCS on thirty of its ES 64 U2 locomotives. This will be needed to keep them fully homologated for Austria in the upcoming years. This is important for the freight corridor towards Eastern Europe, on of the most important service domains of the ES 64 U2s, especially for those with the Bosporus-package.
Other news: Designers are working on a new logo for the leasing company. This is why some recently repainted units have no logos anymore.
MRCE ES64F4MRCE ES64U2
2011-05-06
[EU] ES 64 F4-840 and 841
update 2011|05|06
[EU] ES 64 F4-840 and 841
Today we got the first images of the latest additions to the MRCE Dispolok fleet: ES 64 F4-840 and 841, formerly known as white painted units from the Siemens stock production. Also, they kept their NVR-vehicle number, so that's easy to identify for us. The other three units arrived at the paint shops in Berlin on 25.04.2011, so we expect some first commercial runs with these units soon. - MG
MRCE ES64F4
2011-04-08
[EU] Five additional ES 64 F4 locomotives for MRCE Dispolok
update 2011|04|08
[EU] Five additional ES 64 F4 locomotives for MRCE Dispolok
Siemens Mobility is to supply five type ES 64 F4 Eurosprinter locomotives to the leasing company Mitsui Rail Capital Europe B.V. (MRCE). These locomotives will be equipped for use in Central and Eastern Europe and be certified to operate on long-distance routes from the Black Sea to the Baltic ports in Poland and to the Dutch border.
The vehicles will be manufactured in the Siemens Plant in Munich and are due to be delivered by June 2011 at the latest. - Siemens
Railcolor.net comment: Om 26.03.2011, stock locomotives 189 840 and 841 were seen on their way to Berlin, most likely for a repaint. Both engines can be the first two units of this order, as they already have the right (VM) configuration. Most likely more units from the stock production with the VM configuration (189 840-...) will be sold to MRCE.
MRCE ES64F4Stock locomotives type ES 64 F4
HTRS, or Husa Transportation Railway Services Nederland B.V., is the new name for all activities of former ACTS, that already was part of the Husa group. The operator is very ambitious when it comes to promote its new name in the Netherlands, witness the new liveries for its 1600s (1606, 1609, 1619, 1621) and several G1206 diesel locomotives.
MRCE ES64F4
2010
2010-09-28
[DE] DB Schenker hiring ES 64 F4s: an overview
update 2010|09|28
[DE] DB Schenker hiring ES 64 F4s: an overview
Since the end of August, DB Schenker is hiring thirteen ES 64 F4 locomotives from MRCE Dispolok. It started with ES 64 F4-008, 015, 034, 038, 082, 083, 084, 088, 090, 094, 108, 111, 115. In the mean time, units no. 034, 038 and 094 have been replaced by the 110, 086 and 091 respectivily. - D
MRCE ES64F4
2010-07-05
[DE/NL] ES 64 F4-992
update 2010|07|05
[DE/NL] ES 64 F4-992
In May, KombiVerkehr started the Quirinus Express; four nightly runs a week from Rotterdam-Maasvlakte (ECT Delta Terminal, APMT-Rotterdam and Euromax Terminal) to the Neuss-Hessentor Terminal. Today unit ES 64 F4-992 was released from Wegberg-Wildenrath with promotional markings for this express. - WS/kombiverkehr.de
MRCE ES64F4
2010-06-09
[BE] ES 64 F4 arrives in Belgium
update 2010|06|09
[BE] ES 64 F4 arrives in Belgium
Today, MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-115 was transferred to Belgium, from Aachen-West to Muizen-Goederen in the daily Ambriogo train. Later that day, the 115 was then transported to Schaarbeek. Next saturday the black machine will perform trials between Ath and Silly. Possibly these trials will result in homologation of the ES 64 F4 in Belgium. - HP
MRCE ES64F4
2010-05-24
[EU] ES 64 F4s in Switzerland
update 2010|05|24
[EU] ES 64 F4s in Switzerland
Today, three VE-configurated ES 64 F4 locomotive for MRCE Dispolok were seen during trial runs between Basel Badischer Bahnhof and Rheinfelden; ES 64 F4-103, -105 and -112. They are part of a batch of 15 units (101-115) which now slowly start to make their first appearances outside the Wegberg-Wildenrath test center. All three units now are configurated as VE's, but were originally planned as VL, which is almost the same, but with an additional package fur Belgium. All three units on these pictures have an official delivery date for the VE package and the EBA number (09B11E2 008, 010, and 017) confirm this. At this moment they are technically the same as ES 64 F4-082 to -087. Also very curious is a sticker that tells us that these machines have been co-financed by the European Union, as part of the Trans European Transport Network. - MB
MRCE ES64F4
2010-05-10
[CZ] At the test tracks of Velim/Cerhenice
update 2010|05|10
[CZ] At the test tracks of Velim/Cerhenice
Vlaky.net has a nice report about the vehicles currently making their test rounds at the test tracks of Cerhenice (there was an open day at the 8th of May). IranRunner 1502 is there (No. 1503 is in Wegberg by the way), together with MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-111. Several Skoda units were spotted. New to us is a new ES 64 U4 locomotive: a red painted machine with number 183 702 (see picture). Production number of this machine is still unknown... did anyone check? For now we list it as Siemens 21323. - JP/NJ
MRCE ES64F4Stock locomotives type ES 64 U4
2010-04-20
[EU] update on MRCE ES 64 F4s [update]
update 2010|04|20
[EU] update on MRCE ES 64 F4s [update]
The VM configurated ES 64 F4s of MRCE Dispolok are in the picture lately. no. 150 as transporter, unit 151 to 155 are now hired to PKP IC for at least three months hauling EC/IC trains between Warsaw and Rzepin - No. 156 is used by boxXpress on a temporary base - No. 157 and 158 also left Wegberg-Wildenrath, they are now in Bw Rummelsberg, Berlin. - KAR/MP/DSO
Other locomotives from the first picture: ES 64 F4-108 and 111 are in Velim [CZ] for tests. ES 64 F4-084 is also in Berlin Rummelsberg, ES 64 F4-085 in Velim. - KAR/DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2010-04-07
[DE/PL/HU] ES 64 F4 type VM whereabouts
update 2010|04|07
[DE/PL/HU] ES 64 F4 type VM whereabouts
Two days ago we showed you a picture of four VM configurated ES 64 F4s leaving Germany. Of those four, the 151 has been spotted on its way to Warschau, Poland. The 152, 153, and 155 went to Hungary where are stuck at this moment. Hopefully more information soon...
MRCE ES64F4
2010-04-07
[EU] change of colour
update 2010|04|07
[EU] change of colour
Some remarkable livery changes spotted during the past week:
darker red on KombiVerkehr 185 664
CapTrain 185-CL 005 with some white spots
CapTrain ES 64 F4-995 is black again.
Railpool 185 681 is now hired to PCT! It got PCT logos and a slightly adjusted Railpool base design...- KAR
MRCE ES64F4Railpool 185.2
2010-04-03
[IR/DE] IranRunner 1503 and MRCE ES 64 F4 delivery completed
update 2010|04|03
[IR/DE] IranRunner 1503 and MRCE ES 64 F4 delivery completed
Yesterday, IranRunner 1503 went to Northern Germany. It was hauled by MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-282. Also in that convoy was the new ES 64 F4-038, the very last one of the recently delivered batch of 70 electrics for MRCE. - IvD
MRCE ES64F4
2010-02-02
[EU] all new MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4s listed
update 2010|02|02
[EU] all new MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4s listed
Again an impressive 'Lokzug' inspired us to list all new EuroSprinter ES 64 F4s that Siemens is currently delivering to MRCE Dispolok. For everybody who has lost the overview...
As far as we know, 70 units will be built:
5x VD: ES 64 F4-034 to 038
6x VE: ES 64 F4-082 to 087
15x VL: ES 64 F4-101 to 115
9x VM: ES 64 F4-151 to 159
5x VO: ES 64 F4-208 and 210 to 213
11x VK: ES 64 F4-280 to 290
9x VI: ES 64 F4-401 to 409
10x VP: ES 64 F4-450 to 459
A complete overview here. In total MRCE Dispolok will operate a fleet of 115 units, the biggest of all customers.
MRCE ES64F4
2010-01-18
[PL] ES 64 F4 evaluated by Przewozy Regionalne
update 2010|01|18
[PL] ES 64 F4 evaluated by Przewozy Regionalne
Polish railoperator Przewozy Regionalne Sp. z o.o." (ex "PKP Przewozy Regionalne") will evaluate two Siemens ES 64 F4 electrics on interREGIO services, for one month as a start. The pictures shows both units involved, being the brand new VP-configurated ES 64 F4-457 and -458 of MRCE Dispolok. On 16.01.2010 they were moved from Poznan to Torun on service R-71132. The same operator is already exploiting a Traxx MS unit (Railpool E186 143) - KS/PS
MRCE ES64F4
2010-01-16
[DE] 8x ES 64 F4 coming from Wegberg
update 2010|01|16
[DE] 8x ES 64 F4 coming from Wegberg
Eight different ES 64 F4 electrics of MRCE Dispolok were spotted today around Mönchengladbach station; ES 64 F4-282 solo and a convoy of seven, including the refitted ES 64 F4-207 (ex -028) and -209 (ex -033) for CTL Logistics. Behind these two one can see the fresh ES 64 F4-290, -036, -287, -289 and -288. - PB
MRCE ES64F4
2009
2009-12-20
[EU] SNCF/Veolia
update 2009|12|20
[EU] SNCF/Veolia
SNCF taking over Veolia Cargo results in interesting locomotive combinations! Like this picture, where ES 64 F4-404, recently added to the Veolia Cargo Italy fleet, hauls a train together with a SNCF BB 36000 locomotive. - MS
MRCE ES64F4
2009-12-18
[IT] about Compagnia Ferroviaria Italiana
update 2009|12|18
[IT] about Compagnia Ferroviaria Italiana
Yesterday, Compagnia Ferroviaria Italiana (CFI), a freight operator from Italy, was performing some trials between Genova and Piacenza with a MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4 locomotive. CFI plans to run freight services in the Rome region, they plan to hire ES 64 F4-407 and 408. - EB
MRCE ES64F4
2009-12-14
[NL] ES 64 F4-208 in the Netherlands
update 2009|12|14
[NL] ES 64 F4-208 in the Netherlands
ES 64 F4-208 is in the Netherlands until 29.12.2009, where it is being used for ETCS/ERTMS driver training. - RK
MRCE ES64F4
2009-12-14
[DE/AT/IT] Nordcargo ES 64 F4 in passenger services
update 2009|12|14
[DE/AT/IT] Nordcargo ES 64 F4 in passenger services
Here and here you can find some impressions of Nordcargo electrics hauling EuroCity trains from Munich to Italy vv. There is now also a special website about these services. You see that they offer an attractive variation, yellow-silver, blue-red (474 201) and black locomotives....
MRCE ES64F4
2009-12-01
[DE] ES 64 F4-092 black
update 2009|12|01
[DE] ES 64 F4-092 black
And there it is: ES 64 F4-092 is black. The machine returned from its paint job by Dangelmayr in Berlin today. By the way: 093 will not be repainted (now).
MRCE ES64F4
2009-12-01
[DE/AT/IT] DB/OBB passenger services in Italy
update 2009|12|01
[DE/AT/IT] DB/OBB passenger services in Italy
On 13.12.2009, Deutsche Bahn and the Österreichische Bundesbahn will join forces in transalp passenger services via the Brenner line. Five new services will be introduced between Munich in Germany and several Italian destinations: Bolzano, Bologna, Verona and Milan. An exact timetable can be found here.
By the official introduction, these trains will be hauled by ES 64 F4 series locomotives provided by Nordcargo. Driver training on these machines has already started, as ES 64 F4-088 is already spotted in Italy hauling a single OBB-passenger coach. This solution however is only temporary, as the ES 64 F4s will be replaced by OBB 1216.0 series engines as soon as these units are fully homologated in Italy. 1216 011 is being used right now for tests and driver instructions. - DM
MRCE ES64F4ÖBB 1216
2009-11-27
[NL/DE/PL] new ES 64 F4-VOs in revenue service
update 2009|11|27
[NL/DE/PL] new ES 64 F4-VOs in revenue service
Finally, the first new MRCE Dispolok electrics type ES 64 F4 with a VO-configuration (no. 208 and 210-213) are now in revenue service. CTL Logistics is exploiting the 211 and 212 now. According the markings on these locomotives, the VO-configuration gives access to Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Austria and between clambs, Switzerland. What the restrictions are in this country is not known.
Last picture shows unit 213, on the only day it was hired by IGE, hauling a train for Eivel.
MRCE ES64F4
2009-11-23
[DE] repainting ES 64 F4s
update 2009|11|23
[DE] repainting ES 64 F4s
Two ES 64 Fe units waiting for some fresh black paint; ES 64 F4-092 and -093 in Berlin, waiting for repainting at Dangelmayr. - HG
MRCE ES64F4
2009-11-15
[EU] They keep on coming, those ES 64 F4s
update 2009|11|15
[EU] They keep on coming, those ES 64 F4s
The production of ES 64 F4's for MRCE Dispolok is far from over, they keep on coming those new black electrics. Today a new VE (082) and VK (289) configured unit were spotted in a convoy to Wegberg-Wildenrath. Six new VE machines will be added to the fleet, numbered ES 64 F4-082 to 087.
MRCE ES64F4
2009-11-08
[EU] more ES 64 F4s for MRCE Dispolok?
update 2009|11|08
[EU] more ES 64 F4s for MRCE Dispolok?
Back in 2006, when MRCE Dispolok decided to take over the Dispolok-pool from Siemens, the leasing company ordered 50 new electrics for its fleet. Since 2008, Siemens is building these new locomotives, type ES 64 F4. These machines are spotted on a very regular base, being transported from the factories in Munich to Siemens' test center in Wegberg-Wildenrath. At this moment exactly 50 new units have been spotted:
13x version VL/VE: ES 64 F4-101 to 110, 112, 114, 115
5x version VO: ES 64 F4-208, 210-213
9x version VK: ES 64 F4-280 to 288
9x version VI: ES 64 F4-401 to 409
10x version VP: ES 64 F4-450 to 459
4x version VD: ES 64 F4-034 to 037
We still miss unit 111 and 113, anyone seen these machines yet? If so, we count 52 new units up til now... what is strange... Maybe more engines are needed? Maybe some have been refitted and renumbered? Hopefully we know more soon...
MRCE ES64F4
2009-10-27
[EU] MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-VE overview (update)
update 2009|10|27
[EU] MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-VE overview (update)
Two small additions to the news about the different ES 64 F4 locomotives with the VE package from 19.10.2009; ES 64 F4-090 has been spotted in Nl for the first time now, in service of TX Logistik. ES 64 F4-099 has been repainted in black last week. So it lost its Nordcargo-look. - PG/DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2009-10-19
[EU] MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-VE overview
update 2009|10|19
[EU] MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-VE overview
Not all ES 64 F4s of MRCE Dispolok change numbers when they are retrofitted... During 2009, most VE configurated ES 64 F4's were called back to Wegberg-Wildenrath in Germany for a package extension; the Dutch ATB system is added, same for ECTS and SMCT for Italy. ES 64 F4-088 to 099 have become real European stars, making borders between the Dutch harbours and the Mediterrianian disappear.
Nordcargo and TX Logistik operate the majority of these machines now, most of them being easy to recognize by their white fronts since their enhancement. ES 64 F4-088, 089 (prototype), 091, 092, 093 and 094 are operated by Nordcargo. 094 is painted black. Unit 090, 095, 096, 097 and 098 are running for TX Logistik. 097 is recently repainted in black, like 098. These machines are now also seen in the Netherlands.
ES 64 F4-099 did not return to Nordcargo after leaving Wegberg-Wildenrath. Instead it was spotted in the Netherlands, running for KombiVerkehr.
MRCE ES64F4
2009-10-17
[DE] LOCON hires ES 64 F4-206
update 2009|10|17
[DE] LOCON hires ES 64 F4-206
As per 16.10.2009, LOCON hires MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-206. The machine now has orange coloured vinyls and its countryspecific configuration has been adjusted. It's VO-configuration (Netherlands-Germany-Poland) now also includes Austria. - SJ
MRCE ES64F4
2009-09-29
[DE] MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4 VL > VE
update 2009|09|29
[DE] MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4 VL > VE
Siemens is completing the MRCE Dispolok order right now. Two days ago ES 64 F4-108, 109 and 110 were outshopped in Munich and transported to Wegberg-Wildenrath test center. Now 44 out of 50 units on order, have left the Siemens factories.
The three units of on these pictures represent the VL-configurated sub serie, numbered ES 64 F4-101 to 110. Special about this new configuration is that these units should be able to run in Belgium, in addition to for example the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Croatia and Romania. But, now images appear which implicate that the 101-110 will not get the VL package right away, but will start with the welknown and approved VE-package. It seems that Belgium will have to wait a bit longer... - KAR/TW
MRCE ES64F4
2009-09-14
[NL] TX Logistik in the Netherlands!
update 2009|09|14
[NL] TX Logistik in the Netherlands!
Today, TX Logistik made its first run with a ES 64 F4 (VE version) in revenue service in the Netherlands. The engine can haul the train non-stop to Italy. Final destination is Bologna/Napels/Rome. - JdV
MRCE ES64F4
2009-08-26
[PL] PTK Holding evaluates the ES 64 F4
update 2009|08|26
[PL] PTK Holding evaluates the ES 64 F4
A short message about the Polish operator PTK Holding, which is currently testing a Siemens ES 64 F4 locomotive, MRCE Dispolok's ES 64 F4-400 to be more precise. - KAR
MRCE ES64F4
2009-06-30
[DE] ES 64 F4-150 with promotional vynils
update 2009|06|30
[DE] ES 64 F4-150 with promotional vynils
Here you can find images of the new promotional vynils on MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-150.
MRCE ES64F4
2009-06-25
[IT] ES 64 F4/4s
update 2009|06|25
[IT] ES 64 F4/4s
A nice contribution in the forum from Italy: it lists all customer specific markings on ES 64 F4/4s; 401, 402, 403, 405, 407, 408, 409 > Nordcargo, 404 > Veolia, 406 > SBB Cargo. - DM
MRCE ES64F4
2009-06-13
[DE] about ES 64 F4s
update 2009|06|13
[DE] about ES 64 F4s
Two ES 64 F4 units, formerly hired to Nordcargo, have been retrofitted in Wegberg-Wildenrath lately, and got a new identity. ES 64 F4-013 (VD) is now the ES 64 F4-202 (VO), ES 64 F4-025 is now ES 64 F4-206 (VO). Both engines got a white front and still have their Nordcargo logos!
MRCE ES64F4
2009-06-09
[NL] ES 64 F4-991 in ERS outfit
update 2009|06|09
[NL] ES 64 F4-991 in ERS outfit
MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-991 is now decorated with the logos of ERS Railways - MS/LP
MRCE ES64F4
2009-05-18
[DE] Siemens 'Lokzug'
update 2009|05|18
[DE] Siemens 'Lokzug'
On 15.05.2009, MRCE Dispolok ES 64 P-001 picked up six new Siemens electrics coming from Wegberg-Wildenrath: SNCB 1801, MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-406, -404, -405, -036, -035. A picture - DSO hereMRCE ES64F4the EuroSprinter
Per 30.04.2009, Nordcargo has returned ES 64 F4-009 and -025 the MRCE Dispolok. As per 31.03.2009, ES 64 F4-013 was given back already, now no VD configured ES 64 F4s are in service of the Italian operator anymore. - Nordcargo
MRCE ES64F4
2009-05-04
[AT] ES 64 F4-210 in Austria
update 2009|05|04
[AT] ES 64 F4-210 in Austria
ES 64 F4-210 in Austria for ETCS-trials. - BNA
MRCE ES64F4
2009-05-04
[IT] Nordcargo news
update 2009|05|04
[IT] Nordcargo news
ES 64 F4-088, in service of Nordcargo, has returned after refitting with SCMT. From now on this unit is also a genuine VE machine, which additionally can run the Netherlands, hence the white fronts.
Remarkable is that ES 64 F4-401 has new NVR-numbers, ending with IT-NC, also no longer telling us who is the owner, but by which operator the machine is immatriculated. - DM
MRCE ES64F4
2009-05-03
[DE] first VP-configured ES 64 F4s have arrived
update 2009|05|03
[DE] first VP-configured ES 64 F4s have arrived
Yesterday, MRCE Dispolok ER20-004 brought brand new ES 64 F4-451 and -450 and SNCB 1805 from München-Allach to Wegberg-Wildenrath. The black 189s are the first two ES 64 F4s that represent the VP-configuration, fit for running in Poland.
MRCE ES64F4
2009-05-01
[HU/DE] ES 64 F4-150 back home
update 2009|05|01
[HU/DE] ES 64 F4-150 back home
On 27.04.2009, MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-150 has returned from its trials runs in the Czech Republic and Hungary.
MRCE ES64F4
2009-04-15
[DE] interesting transport arrives in Cologne West
update 2009|04|15
[DE] interesting transport arrives in Cologne West
On their way to Mönchengladbach, MRCE Dispolok's passed by Köln West, hauling the SNCB units 1801 and 1804 and MRCE's new ES 64 F4-409. In Mönchengladbach these machines can be seen now together with MRCE ES 64 F4-200, -203, -204. IvD/KAR
MRCE ES64F4SNCB HLE 18-19
Then it was transported to the Czech Republic, where the machine now is being used for trials on the Czech network, performed by ČD Cargo. The 150 also carries small ČD Cargo vinyls up front, which immediately resulted in wild speculation about the Czech railways wanting to hire or purchase ES 64 F4 units for their freight transport.
Appearantly, at the end of February 2009, ČD Cargo released a tender for the lease of six modern quadricourant electrics, for a period of five years. The Siemens ES 64 F4 is one of the types ČD Cargo can choose from, next to Bombardier's TRAXX F140 MS. Next to that, ČD Cargo wants to operate container services in cooperation with DB Schenker. Multi-system locomotives would of course offer the possibility of non-stop operation.
The near future will learn what the Czech railways will decide. In the mean time Siemens can promote its ES 64 F4 platform and gather the neccessary data to get this machine fully approved for the Czech railway network. - K-report.net, Zelpage.czMRCE ES64F4
2009-04-04
[EU] Siemens press event
update 2009|04|04
[EU] Siemens press event
During the previous weekend, Siemens Mobility held a press event, during which many journalists were invited to, amonst other locations, take a look inside the Munich factories. Next to numerous units under construction for Queensland Rail and National Pacific, new machines for the Belgian Railways (18 series) and several new ES 64 F4s could be seen, to be delivered to MRCE Dispolok. After the new VI (IT/PL), VO (NL/DE/PL) and VK (DE/NL) configurated machines, now the first units that represent the VP (PL/IT) and VL (NL/BE/DE/CH/IT) sub versions will be built.
Remarkable is also the announcement that Siemens is soon to introduce a new standard platform for locomotives. Herewith, the Belgian 18 series, Portuguese LE4700 series and the ER20s for Lithuania now prove to be just an interim solution. - Siemens
MRCE ES64F4Siemens Vectron locos used for test and promotion
These two engines travelled to Mönchengladbach together with ES 64 F4-007, 008, 016 and 017. What will happen to these machines is yet unknown, but most likely their configuration will be changed.
Two other machines arrived in Berlin last week, for a repaint in black. ES 64 F4-020, known for its DB Autozug vinyls, recently got three new pantographs in Wildenrath. What the consequences are of this modification, will be clear after the repaint we think, when the machine will get new technical inscriptions. Also present in Berlin was ES 64 F4-096, with a white front. This machine now represents the extended VE configuration. - HG/PS/DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2009-03-24
[DE] Siemens on the move
update 2009|03|24
[DE] Siemens on the move
Two interesting convoys lately. On 22.03.2009, ER 20-013 (Bosphorus Europe Express) transported the first serie-produced 18 series locomotive for the Belgian Railways (designated HLE 1803) from Munich to Wegberg-Wildenrath. Along came the brand new ES 64 F4-285 and 286 for MRCE Dispolok.
Today, Bombardier E483.102 - FNM E 483.102 as the first one of its batch, got its final Nordcargo logos, see picture. This week, on 18.03.2009, FNM/Nordcargo expects to get its fourth Traxx F140 DC electric in blue and grey. E 483.105-108 will be delivered until the end of June 2009, at a pace of one per month.
In the mean time the fleet of Nordcargo is subjected to many changes. The new MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-401, and the refitted ES 64 F4-094 have arrived in Italy in the mean time. The 401 will be immatriculated by Nordcargo during its homologation process for Italy, being the first representative of the new ES 64 F4/4 sub serie. ES 64 F4-094 (VE-configuration with SCMT) will be used by Nordcargo during the retrofitting of the other VE-machines (ES 64 F4-088, 091, 092, 093, and 099) with SCMT, that Nordcargo is hiring. - Nordcargo
DB Schenker Rail Italia Traxx DCMRCE ES64F4
2009-03-13
[DE-TR] The Bosphorus Europe Express!
update 2009|03|13
[DE-TR] The Bosphorus Europe Express!
In May 2005 we already had the Europe-Asia-Express, now again a demonstration run will be held from Europe to Turkey, again with a Siemens EuroSprinter and EuroRunner. This time MRCE Dispolok's publishes the news that they will organize a test run with two of their units, starting of in Llubljana in Slovena on 16.03.2009, ending in Istanbul (TR) only 37 hours later. Now freight trains take 23 hours more to complete the 1577 km long route, road transport takes about 10-20 hours more.
The Bosphorus-Europe Express will cross Croatia, Serbia and Bulgaria along its way. Because the route in the latter two countries goes via non-electrified track sections, MRCE Dispolok EuroRunner ER 20-013 will join the ES 64 F4-032. - MRCE Dispolok
MRCE ER 20MRCE ES64F4
2009-03-08
[CH/IT] ES 64 F4s leaving Wegberg-Wildenrath
update 2009|03|08
[CH/IT] ES 64 F4s leaving Wegberg-Wildenrath
On 02.03.2009, MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-094 (configuration VE with SCMT now) and SBB Cargo Re474 002 (configuration VF with SCMT now) could be spotted in Martigny (CH).
We can also report that on 28.02.2009, RTC ES 64 F4-001 and 002, together with MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-023, 024 and 032 have left Wegberg-Wildenrath, heading south. Looking at the vynils under the cabin windows, they must have been refitted with SCMT too. Pictures can be found here.
MRCE ES64F4
2009-03-08
[DE/NL] about ES 64 F4/2s
update 2009|03|08
[DE/NL] about ES 64 F4/2s
In the mean time we have seen four different refitted ES 64 F4/2s (configuration VO for service in NL/DE/PL) on public tracks:
ES 64 F4-200 (ex ES 64 F4-006)
ES 64 F4-203 (ex ES 64 F4-019)
ES 64 F4-204 (ex ES 64 F4-021), available for operators in the Netherlands to find out what they think about these machines, in the mean time KombiVerkehr, the Rurtalbahn and ITL have been operating the machine. - Rolandrail.net
ES 64 F4-205 (ex ES 64 F4-022), is rented out to KombiVerkehr and in regular service
MRCE ES64F4
2009-02-17
[EU] new ES 64 F4s are spreading
update 2009|02|17
[EU] new ES 64 F4s are spreading
Last sunday, ES 64 F4-204 and ES 64 F4-401 have left Wegberg-Wildenrath, hauled by MRCE's ES 64 P-001. The 204 accompagnied the 205 by KombiVerkehr, 401 went down south, propably heading for Italy. The 401 carries NC markings up front, which stands for Nordcargo.
Yesterday, two new ES 64 F4/2s from Munich arrived in Wegberg-Wildenrath; ES 64 4-282 and 283. Both represent the VK configuration for NL/DE services only. Now we have three new number series:
ES 64 F4-200 and up > VO configuration, NL-DE-PL, 5 new, 9 other machines to be retrofitted
ES 64 F4-280 and up > VK configuration, NL-DE, 4 new machines delivered
ES 64 F4-400 and up > VI confihuration, IT or PL, 6 new machines delivered, 1 retrofitted
Yesterday, ES 64 F4-205 (VO configuration for NL/DE/PL) was transported to the Netherlands. It was then used by KombiVerkehr for its Rotterdam-Duisburg service. - LP
MRCE ES64F4
2009-02-09
ES 64 F4 number chaos [DE]
update 2009|02|09
ES 64 F4 number chaos [DE]
Siemens is gradually releasing new black painted ES 64 F4 locomotives from its factories in Munich. Today again two machines were transported to Wegberg-Wildenrath, where all newly builts are gathered. This time the ES 64 P-001 transported machines with the curious numbers 189-280 and 281... We wonder what that means. At this moment 17 new machines have been completed by Siemens; 401-406, 934-937, 208, 210-213 and 280-281. - DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2009-01-31
[DE/NL] KombiVerkehr and ES 64 F4s
update 2009|01|31
[DE/NL] KombiVerkehr and ES 64 F4s
On 06.01.2009, MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-094 arrived at Kijfhoek shunt yard in the Netherlands. Operator KombiVerkehr hired the unit for border crossing services from Duisburg (DE) to the harbour of Rotterdam (Maasvlakte, NL). But, the 094 soon suffered from problems with the Italian detection system when running through the Netherlands. Therefore the 094 was on replaced by MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-098.
Remarkable is that both engines represent the VE configuration for Siemens ES 64 F4 locomotives. It's, as far as we know, the first time that such configurated machines are used for commercial services in the Netherlands. It means that for the first time Siemens is able to offer fully homologated electrics for the complete Trans-Alp freight corridor, all the way from the Netherlands, via Germany and Switzerland or Austria, to Italy. VE machines were up till now mainly used by operator Nordcargo, but these machines never reached for the Netherlands. Again a little break through for modern electrics. - Rolandrail.net/LP
n.b. ES 64 F4-098 is not to be confused with ES 64 F4-998, which is in service of ERS Railways, and represents the VJ configuration for NL and DE only.
MRCE ES64F4
2009-01-04
[DE] new ES 64 F4s
update 2009|01|04
[DE] new ES 64 F4s
Again two brand new ES 64 F4s have been released from Munich, both with temporary service numbers only:
First image shows '189 210' - 189-VK configuration with DE/NL in its raster. The second is one of '189 937' - 189-VD configuration with DE/AT/IT/SI/HR in its raster.
MRCE ES64F4
2008
2008-12-27
[DE/NL/PL] the new ES64F4 sub type VO [update]
update 2008|12|27
[DE/NL/PL] the new ES64F4 sub type VO [update]
MRCE Dispolok ES 64 F4-022 has been retrofitted for services in the Netherlands, Germany and Polen, a new configuration for this Siemens multi-system platform. The machine therefore now represents the VO sub type, and is also renumbered as ES 64 F4-205.
The second machine in the picture is most likely to be the former 021 (based on colour and REV-date), now renumbered as ES 64 F4-204. It has the same package as the 205. - WS/ASDF
MRCE ES64F4
2008-12-22
[DE] ES 64 F4-210 spotted
update 2008|12|22
[DE] ES 64 F4-210 spotted
Next one in line to come of the production line of new ES 64 F4 units for MRCE Dispolok, is a machine numbered '189 210' (DE/NL homologated, VK configuration). It was spotted yesterday around Munich together with the also new ES 64 F4-937 (VD configuration). - SB
MRCE ES64F4
2008-12-04
[CH] ES 64 F4 with TX logos
update 2008|12|04
[CH] ES 64 F4 with TX logos
ES 64 F4-096 now carries TX logos on both sides. - RIRF
MRCE ES64F4
2008-11-18
[EU] Siemens short
update 2008|11|18
[EU] Siemens short
Lokomotion ES 64 F4-017 has lost its blue adhesives, celebrating Italy being world champions soccer back in 2006 (DB) - RailJet 1116 204 is in Hungary for trials (GA) - As already shown yesterday, SBB Cargo's Re474 002 is in Germany for test with the Italian SCMT system (DSO) - OBB 1216 239 was transported to Dresden (DE) yesterday, for staff training on the route towards this city. From December on, the 1216 series will be used for EuroCity services between Vienna and Berlin, via Prague. - Bahnforum.info
MRCE ES64F4ÖBB 1216SBB Cargo Re474
2008-11-17
[DE] ES 64 F4 gathering
update 2008|11|17
[DE] ES 64 F4 gathering
On 16.11.2008, following Siemens ES 64 F4s could be seen together in Mönchengladbach: MRCE-Dispolok ES 64 F4-997 (ex-DB), -406, -405, -934, -935 (all brand new) and SBB Cargo Re 474 002 from Italy.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-11-12
[DE/AT] new Siemens products
update 2008|11|12
[DE/AT] new Siemens products
At Drehstromloks.de one can see a first picture of the CargoServ 1216 930 and a new ES 64 F4 unit in the colours of MRCE-Dispolok (curiously numbered ES 64 F4-934).
CargoServ 1216MRCE ES64F4
2008-11-12
[NL] ES 64 F4-99x's in the Netherlands
update 2008|11|12
[NL] ES 64 F4-99x's in the Netherlands
Yesterday, ES 64 F4-991, 998 and 999 arrived in the Netherlands. These machines will be used by ERS Railways, replacing class66 diesel electrics. Today, ES 64 F4-999 'Mike' hauled the ERSR 'Melzo' shuttle (see picture). ES 64 F4-991 ran a container service to Melnik. - Rolandrail.net
Last week, ES 64 F4-996 already arrived in the Netherlands; Since then it's parked at Kijfhoek shunt yard. Freight operator ACTS is mentioned to be the next lessor of this unit.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-10-31
[DE] ES 64 F4-998 and -999
update 2008|10|31
[DE] ES 64 F4-998 and -999
Both machines are now painted black. On 29.10.2008: ES 64 F4-998 accompagnied 991/997/998 in Gremberg. -999 was sent to Munich, curiously nicknamed 'Mike'. - DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2008-10-21
[DE] about 189 091/096-099 (update)
update 2008|10|21
[DE] about 189 091/096-099 (update)
On 13.10.2008, ex-DB units 189 098 and 099 were still present in their red livery, but were transported to Berlin Ruhleben for a paint job. 189 091/096/097 are black now, with new MRCE Dispolok designations: ES 64 F4-991/996/997.
ES 64 F4-991/996 and 997 were transported form Seddin to Mönchengladbach on 20.10.2008.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-10-13
[DE] 6 x ES 64 F4
update 2008|10|13
[DE] 6 x ES 64 F4
On 11 and 12.10.2008, ES 64 F4-021, 404, 403, 024, 023 and 022 were on their way through Germany. As you can read, two brand new 3-kV machines were part of the convoy, the designated ES 64 F4-403 and 404, with their temporary numbers. Picture one shows the convoy minus the 022 in Treuchtlingen [DE]. The second one the service number of machine 403.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-10-01
[DE] MRCE Dispolok 189 091/096-099
update 2008|10|01
[DE] MRCE Dispolok 189 091/096-099
DB has returned all these units to MRCE Dispolok, and now they are in Berlin for repainting. 189 091/096 and 097 are the first to enter the paintshops of Dangelmayer. - DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2008-09-29
[DE] ES 64 F4-401 und 402 have left Munich
update 2008|09|29
[DE] ES 64 F4-401 und 402 have left Munich
Yesterday, the first two brand new ES 64 F4 locomotives for MRCE Dispolok have been spotted. ES 64 F4-006 was seen in Bonn hauling two machines for 3kV DC only. Appearantly these machines will get ES 64 F4-4xx service numbers. - xilo.de
MRCE ES64F4
2008-09-25
[NL] ERS Railways will get five ES 64 F4's
update 2008|09|25
[NL] ERS Railways will get five ES 64 F4's
After 14.10.2008, ERS Railways will get five ES 64 F4s, to replace six Class66 diesel-electrics, that will leave ERS before the end of the year. The electrics will first be introduced on routes to Pirna (CZ). - LP
MRCE ES64F4
2008-09-25
[DE/NL] DB Schenker returns 189s to MRCE Dispolok
update 2008|09|25
[DE/NL] DB Schenker returns 189s to MRCE Dispolok
On 29 and 30.09.2008, DB Schenker will return 189 091, 096 and 099 to MRCE Dispolok. These machines, still painted in their original DB red livery, were rented by the DB since April 2008. - AH
MRCE ES64F4
2008-09-24
[DE/PL] ES 64 F4-400 to Poland
update 2008|09|24
[DE/PL] ES 64 F4-400 to Poland
On 21.09.2008, ES 64 F4-400 was spotted in Berlin, hauled by ES 64 F4-006, to be send to Poland. ES 64 F4-400 represents a new 189-subtype (VI) configured for services under 3kV DC catenary only, that will be delivered to MRCE-Dispolok for the Polish and Italian domestic market. MRCE-Dispolok has 20 units on order.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-09-20
[HU] ES 64 F4-022 in Hungary
update 2008|09|20
[HU] ES 64 F4-022 in Hungary
Next to several new Traxx locomotives, also Siemens ES 64 F4-022 is currently visiting Hungary. Purpose of these trials is still unknown. The ES 64 F4 type however is not homologated for this country yet.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-08-20
[NL] 189 998 in the Netherlands
update 2008|08|20
[NL] 189 998 in the Netherlands
The black 189 998 arrived in the Netherlands last monday, where it was transported to Zutphen. There it will be equipped with the Dutch signalling system ATB. It's still unknown if this system will be added to whats already on board of this machine. That would result in a new sub type for the 189 family, as this machine then would be able to run non-stop from the Netherlands to Italy.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-08-07
[DK] ES 64 F4-021 in Denmark
update 2008|08|07
[DK] ES 64 F4-021 in Denmark
The black ES 64 F4-021 went to Denmark last week. It was used for trials to messure how much an ES 64 F4 locomotive can haul on the steep ramps on the Great Belt Link. Result: 1921 tons or about 15 % more than a BR 185. The tests was performed by Siemens and Railion Scandinavia. - RR
MRCE ES64F4
2008-08-07
[DE] ES 64 F4-400
update 2008|08|07
[DE] ES 64 F4-400
ES 64 F1-001 has, again, changed its identity! The machine is now renumbered
ES 64 F4-400! Reason unknown...
MRCE ES64F4
2008-08-01
[IT] ES 64 F4-089 with SCMT
update 2008|08|01
[IT] ES 64 F4-089 with SCMT
On 06.08.2008, Italian operator will start (test) commercial services with ES 64 F4-089, the first locomotive of its type equipped with the new Italian signalling system SCMT. It will be used on the corridor Chiasso - Anagni (from Chiasso to Orte with Nordcargo personnel, from Orte to Anagni with RTC personnel). - MF
MRCE ES64F4
2008-07-29
[EU] Railcolor Short
update 2008|07|29
[EU] Railcolor Short
185 607 is at this moment in Dunakeszi [HU] by Bombardier where it is preparated for trials - ES 64 F4-032 is repainted in black - ES 64 F4-022 is the next machine to be painted black for MRCE-Dispolok in Berlin - ES 64 F4-021 visited Denmark on 26/27.07.2008 for trial runs between Fredericia and Ringsted
MRCE ES64F4
2008-07-28
[DE] more about ES 64 F1-001, or shall we say 189 101?
update 2008|07|28
[DE] more about ES 64 F1-001, or shall we say 189 101?
This machine, of which we published a picture last week, now has got its final service numbers. At the same time it has lost its Siemens promotional vinyls. On 24.07.2008 it was transported by the freshly repainted ES 64 F4 -032 from Berlin, where the restyling was done, to Munich.
Its new i.d.: LZB: 189 101-9 - Cesifer: E 189 101 RT - NVR:* 91 80 6189 101-9 D-DISPO
Appearantly the machine will be tested using the RTC permit or maybe RTC will be the first customer. Revision date has not been changed. The machine represents the new sub type VI and is/will be homologated for Poland and Italy.
* numbers previously referred to as UIC numbers, are now renamed on this website as NVR (national vehicle registration) numbers.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-07-21
[DE] ES 64 F1-001
update 2008|07|21
[DE] ES 64 F1-001
Thanks goes out to the people that reacted to our request for pictures of the black EuroSprinter with no id. The machine without service numbers, but generally referred to as 'ES64F1 001' can be seen in Munchen on this picture. The 3kV-only locomotive is the first representative of the VI configuration of the ES64F4-family and will be able to run in Italy and Poland.
Most pictures we got showed the exact machine, but in its previous life, better known as E189 929.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-07-12
[PL] Siemens ES64F4 homologated for Poland
update 2008|07|12
[PL] Siemens ES64F4 homologated for Poland
The Siemens ES64F4 electrics are now officially homologated for Poland, without further restrictions. For its main customer for these machines, lease company MRCE-Dispolok, Siemens plans on different configurations that include Poland for the near future;
ES64F4-VH: AT-DE-PL - 10 locomotives planned
ES64F4-VI: IT and PL - 10 locomotives (3kV DC only) from the latest order
ES64F4-VP: PL - 10 locomotives (3kV DC only) from the latest order
ES64F4-VO: NL-DE-PL - no further details - rynek-kolejowy.pl
MRCE ES64F4
2008-07-01
[DE] Who is black?
update 2008|07|01
[DE] Who is black?
These MRCE Dispolok machines have been reported being repainted in black right now:
ER 20-005, -008, -009, -013 and -014
ES 64 U2-026 and -067
ES 64 F4-006 (VH), -010 (VD), -021 (VD), -028 (VK), -029 (VI, no service numbers), -033 (VK), -094 (VE) and -098 (VE)
189 090, 092, 093, 094, and 095 (all VJ). 189 093-095 now have a Veolia-livery
If there are any more, please let us know!
On 07.06.2008, MRCE Dispolok ES64F1 001, with promotional inscriptions, and adjusted for service under 3kV voltage systems only, was transported from Wegberg-Wildenrath (D) to Munchen. It was accompagnied by ES64F4 006, recently repainted in the new black MRCE livery. - Bahnforum.info
MRCE ES64F4
2008-06-02
[DE] triple black
update 2008|06|02
[DE] triple black
ES 64 F4-021 - ER 20-013 - ES 64 U2-067 - the next ones with new black paint have been relased form the paint shop in Berlin today.
MRCE ER 20MRCE ES64F4MRCE ES64U2
2008-05-27
[EU] Railcolor Shorts (update)
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 DCBeacon Rail Traxx AC1DB Schenker 189MRCE ES64F4
2008-04-13
[DE] ES64F4 094 and ES64F4 094...
update 2008|04|13
[DE] ES64F4 094 and ES64F4 094...
yes! we have two ES64F4 094s! Both recently repainted. Luckely, one of them is not entirely black anymore, otherwise they also would have looked identical...
MRCE ES64F4
2008-04-12
[DE] Wildenrath is popular / E189 090 is back
update 2008|04|12
[DE] Wildenrath is popular / E189 090 is back
MRCE Dispolok E189 090 has returned from the Dessau-works and was transported today to the Siemens Wildenrath test centre, a plce to be at this moment for multi-system electrics. The black machine, now with CityNightLine logos, took Nordcargo ES64F4 093 with her to the test tracks. This yellow and silver machine is VE configured machine that soon will get its additional equipment for running in Holland. - DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2008-04-08
[DE] [NL] Mitsui 189 090-099 all found a (new) employer
update 2008|04|08
[DE] [NL] Mitsui 189 090-099 all found a (new) employer
During the last months, there were several updates about the whereabouts of the 10 Siemens machines that MRCE Dispolok has purchased from Railion back in 2006. In the first months of 2008 they all have been retrofitted for services into Holland, and 5 machines have been repainted in black. 189 091, 096-099 are still red, with white fronts, and again rented out to Railion, which uses them for direct services into Holland. 189 090 and 092 have been used for CityNightLine services from Germany to Amsterdam. 189 090 however derailed and is still in the Dessau workshops in Germany for repairs. Next to 189 092, now also red Railion machines are being used for the CNL international passenger services. 189 093-095 all were first painted black, then to recieve a new Veolia livery in grey and red. 189 093 and 095 are already in service, but have not been used for any border crossing service outside Germany yet. 189 094 is currently in Wegberg-Wildenrath. - diverse
MRCE ES64F4
2008-04-01
[DE]>[IT] Tomorrow: TX E189 995-997 running to Italy
update 2008|04|01
[DE]>[IT] Tomorrow: TX E189 995-997 running to Italy
Starting per 02.04.2008, MRCE Dispolok ES64F4 095, 096 and 097 (yes still in yellow and silver), will start a direct shuttle service between Wanne-Eickel (DE) and Melzo (IT). All three machines got SE markings up front, short for Serfer, an from Italy and probably the responsible operator for the Italian part of the journey. - AH
MRCE ES64F4
2008-03-25
[NL] 189 096-099 running for Railion again!
update 2008|03|25
[NL] 189 096-099 running for Railion again!
Next to the previously mentioned 189 096, also 189 097-099, retrofitted for services in Germany and the Netherlands, are in service of Railion again. - RR
MRCE Dispolok locomotive 189 096 is seen in service of DB Schenker again! Complete with white fronts and additional pantographs it is now used for long haul services in the Netherlands and Germany, together with 189 023, 065-080, 082-089 and 100. The reason why this machine is again hired by DB Schenker is not known. Its new UIC number, 91 80 6189 096-1 D-DISPO, proves it is still property of MRCE Dispolok. - RR/DSO
Another former Railion electric has been painted black. MRCE Dispolok 189 094 is now renumbered as ES64F4 094-E189 094. Strange because this leasing company already has a ES64F4 094 (E189 994)... Something needs to change... - DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2008-03-11
[NL] [DE] MRCE and MRCE Dispolok merger...
update 2008|03|11
[NL] [DE] MRCE and MRCE Dispolok merger...
Yesterday, Mitsui published a press statement about the short term plans it has with both its MRCE and MRCE Dispolok leasing subsidiaries;
Mitsui Rail Capital Europe B.V. in Amsterdam (MRCE) and Dispolok GmbH in Munich (Dispolok) will
take an important step in integrating their locomotive leasing operations as of April 1, 2008.
MRCE successfully established in October 2004 as a subsidiary of Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Mitsui) for
locomotive leasing operation in Europe, and Dispolok, acquired by Mitsui in October 2006, will
integrate their operations to create one of the largest European locomotive operating lessors and
service providers with more than 200 locomotives already delivered to customers in more than 10
countries in Europe.
The integration will comprise a transfer of all leasing operations to Munich, which will be renamed
MRCE Dispolok GmbH (MRCE Dispolok), and a concentration of all corporate operations in
Amsterdam, which will continue to carry the name of Mitsui Rail Capital Europe B.V.
All day-to-day locomotive lease operations including sales & marketing, fleet management, logistics
management and service & maintenance management for the entire fleet of MRCE and MRCE
Dispolok will be centralized in Munich, while the marketing and technology strategy & development,
business administration, financing and budgeting, locomotive procurement and ownership will be
homed in Amsterdam. Current MRCE sales staff will be operationally assigned to MRCE Dispolok
but physically remain in Amsterdam to be closer to core customers in North & Western Europe. All
shares of Mitsui in Dispolok will be transferred to MRCE. A new corporate identity and logo design
will be introduced including the unification of the entire fleet to a black color scheme.
This integration is to combine the industrial and financial strength of MRCE and Dispolok and to
establish the basis for further expansion and diversification.r. Miki, the current CEO of MRCE and
future Managing Director, Group CEO of MRCE explained: “The integration will be mainly driven by
using best the existing expertise and capabilities at the actual locations and we have not been
chasing a holding structure but more a vertical concentration into corporate and market functions”.
Mr. Stahl, the current President and COO of MRCE and future Managing Director, Group Marketing
& Strategy of MRCE outlined: “This will be to combine the strength of both while eliminating
weakness. We think to have created an organization which by operations has an unparalleled depth
of know-how and functions in this specific market and commit to spearhead market development to
all aspects in favor of our business partners”. Dr. Breinl, the current COO of Dispolok and future Chief Officer, Group Technology, Development of MRCE added;” We are leading ETCS development
having invested in a very promising and future oriented design and configuration for our fleet and
have started to look into a different design of locomotives”.
For the near future, MRCE will focus on the European Rail new development by supporting and
assisting privately and nationally held railways to regain transportation market shares, while
endeavoring to protect the environment, as well as to improve the efficiency of the supply of goods to
meet the growing demands of the society. In close cooperation with Mitsui, MRCE is planning to
diversify into various new business segments related to rail freight transportation.
At the end of February, Dispolok ES64F4 021 and 022 returned form Croatia to Germany, after two years of service of Hrvatske Željeznice, the Croatian Railways. The leasing contract has ended. For some time the HZ considers ordering modern multi-system electrics, but up until now there is no official information about an order. - ZC
MRCE ES64F4
2008-03-04
[DE] MRCE Dispolok 189 092
update 2008|03|04
[DE] MRCE Dispolok 189 092
First sightings of the recenlty repainted 189 092. The machine is black now and its details are identical to the 090, including MRCE-Dispolok logos and silber colored striping. Additionally, the machines carries 'CityNightLine' inscriptions in white on both sides. Also see the 189 092 profile on this website.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-03-01
[DE] CTL gets more ES64F4s
update 2008|03|01
[DE] CTL gets more ES64F4s
CTL, open access operator from Poland, got two ES64F4 electrics from MRCE-Dispolok leasing yesterday. In the Siemens test centre of Wegberg-Wildenrath both maches, designated ES64F4 028 and 033, were present at a small ceremony. Both machines were recently repainted and retrofitted. Now there are balck and ready for long haul services between Germany and the Netherlands. - Drehstromloks.de
Ever more MRCE-Dispolok 189s turn black. Now E189 928 and 933 have lost their yellow-silver Dispolok livery and returned from the paintshop in Berlin in a shiny black livery.
189 093 and 095, two former DB machines, with the same black Mitsui livery, have got additional red and grey adhesives, resulting in a pretty Veolia design, the operator that will use these machines in the future for cross-border services between Germany and the Netherlands. 189 094 is at this moment already running for Veolia but still needs its face-lift. Pictures of the 189 095 can be found in the railcolor.net forum. - DSO
MRCE ES64F4
2008-02-08
[DE] [NL] 189 090
update 2008|02|08
[DE] [NL] 189 090
Today, it is reported, the black E189 090 for the first time hauled the international passenger services 300/301 all the way to Amsterdam Central Station. Up till now the machines had to be replaced, after coming from Frankfurt/M, at the German/Dutch border in Emmerich by a Dutch machine. - OVL Update: In the second week of Februari the 189 090 derailed in Amsterdam.
MRCE ES64F4
2008-02-04
[DE] E189 910 turns black..
update 2008|02|04
[DE] E189 910 turns black..
After having repainted several 189 series locomotives, E189 090 and 095, purchased from the DB, now also the first locomotive form the original Dispolok fleet got a similar livery; black, red and white fronts, but without MRCE-Dispolok logos and different technical inscriptions.
It concerns E189 910/ES64F4 010, that seems to called in in Munchen, just for this metamorphosis. It is still a 189-VD sub type locomotive, but it has lost its Italy-immatriculation. - AH/DSO
>> pictures E189 910 in black MRCE ES64F4
2008-02-01
[IT] ES64F4 089 looking a bit pale..
update 2008|02|01
[IT] ES64F4 089 looking a bit pale..
Dispolok ES64F4 089, is as we speak, busy with making trials to get a approval being equipped with the new Italian train detection SCMT. The machine has a special white front. It is planned to equip all machines from the 189-VD, -VE and -VI sub type with SCMT in the future. - MF
MRCE ES64F4
2008-02-01
[IT] about the fleet of Nordcargo
update 2008|02|01
[IT] about the fleet of Nordcargo
Interesting news from Italy. The fleet of open access freight operator Nordcargo will experience a true metamorphosis in the upcoming time. ES64F4 009, 013, 025, 088, 091, 092, 093, 098, 099 rented from MRCE-Dispolok and E 483 008, 009 and 010, on hire from Angel Trains Cargo leasing will soon turn blue. On all locomotives, the silver sides will be decorated with blue colored vynils, with a small grey-colored Nordcargo logo in the center.
E474 201, recently purchased by Nordcargo, and the E483 series machines that are on order by Bombardier will be painted completely in the new corporate colours of Nordcargo; Blue sides with grey cabins.
Finally, Nordcargo ordered three additional E483 series machines on 31.01.2008, making a total of 8 machines on order. - MF
DB Schenker Rail Italia (former Nordcargo) ES64F4DB Schenker Rail Italia Traxx DCMRCE ES64F4
2003
2003-09-12
[DE] Dispolok ES 64 F4-002 'Dispolok2' outshopped
update 2003|09|12
[DE] Dispolok ES 64 F4-002 'Dispolok2' outshopped
The new Dispolok ES64F4 002 has left the factory in Munchen. The loco has the same livery as the first loco of this type, with stars. Only this loco carries ´Dispolok 2´ at its sides.
MRCE ES64F4
MRCE ES64F4: General history
Liberalisation
Liberalisation of the European rail freight transport market has created to possibility for everyone (that possesses the mandatory safety and operation permits of course), to start its own rail operation company. By permitting new operators on the various European networks, competition levels should increase and prices should drop.
Newly founded open access operators entered the market, competing with the privatized national railway operators, to profit from the increasing demand for transportation. The open access operators come from various backgrounds,, but share a common problem. They have to start small, with tight budgets, often too tight to invest in modern, expensive rolling stock right from the beginning. Next to that, an operator first has to be sure that it has gathered a number of transport contracts with customers that are such a solid base that one can economically justifies serious investments in new rolling stock.
A leasing pool
The market for cheaper second hand vehicles was soon overloaded, inspiring Siemens to come with an interesting alternative for rail operators. Being a manufacturer they were able to set up a pool of modern electric and diesel locomotives in a relative short period. A pool of new and therefore state of the art locomotives, not for sale, but available for hire or lease to rail operators on a very flexible basis. Machines could be hired for one day, 6 months or even years, depending on the number of service contracts an operator is able to acquire. Risk of Investment is therefore being reduced.
Siemens also set up a service system for its pool locomotives. Mobile teams can service machines on location, for example during (un)loading its train. For repairs, general overhauls etc, a network of work shop was created throughout Europe. Should a machine accidentally break down, Siemens even guarantees direct replacement.
founding Siemens Dispolok GmbH
To manage its leasing and servicing activities, Siemens founded a separate subsidiary; Siemens Dispolok GmbH. The ES64F4 series became one of three successful products that Dispolok offered to its customers since 2000. It is identical to the DB 189 series, a multi-system freight locomotive, that theoretically can run on all western European rail networks with normal gauge (1435 mm) rail systems. Unlike the DB, Siemens decided to invest a lot in getting the yellow and silver painted machines homologated for many countries, as especially freight operation proved to 'internationlize' vey rapidly.
Dispolok for sale
This proved how fast the market for rail transport was changing, also affecting the position of Dispolok in the market. Independent investment companies discovered the lease market and massively invested in modern electrics and diesel locomotives. Lease companies were slowly becoming important customers for the railway industry, because they order locomotive power in large quantities. Their demands increasingly influence the innovation strategy of the industry. With its Dispolok pool, Siemens was increasingly competing with its own potential customers, so in 2006 it was decided to sell the subsidiary and to focus more on their core business again: building locomotives. Of course, the transaction was also financially attractive, raising money which can be invested in developing new products.
In October 2006, Mitsui, a leasing company originally form Japan, got permission to acquire Siemens Dispolok GmbH (from then on renamed as Dispolok GmbH), including the complete locomotive fleet, at that moment including around 35 ES64F4 platform locomotives (with ES64F4 001-005 already sold to Italian rail operator RTC and the ES64F4 028-033 still to be delivered). The deal also included an order for 50 more ES64F4 electrics, the first order from a leasing company for Siemens. Dispolok was renamed MRCE-Dispolok and positioned next to MRCE, the Mitsui subsidiary that was already active on the European market since 2004. Both companies were given a different focus. MRCE Dispolok serves customers in Austria, Italy, Poland and South East Europe, MRCE covers the other parts of Europe.
Restructuring MRCE and MRCE Dispolok
As of 01.04.2008, a next step was taken integrating the locomotive leasing operations of both MRCE (Amsterdam) and Dispolok GmbH (Munich). The integration comprised a transfer of all leasing operations to MRCE Dispolok, and a concentration of all corporate operations in Amsterdam, which will continue to carry the name of MRCE. All day-to-day locomotive lease operations including sales & marketing, fleet management, logistics management and service & maintenance management for the entire fleet of MRCE and MRCE Dispolok will be centralized in Munich, while the marketing and technology strategy & development, business administration, financing and budgeting, locomotive procurement and ownership will be homed in Amsterdam. Further unification of the fleet will be reached by applying the new MRCE (Dispolok) logos and painting all machines black as soon as possible.
further changed in the organisation, new name
Just before the summer of 2011, MRCE changed its logos. This was a result of another internal re-organization. All operational leasing activities are since then the repsonsibility of the Amsterdam-department. A new logo was introduced, only saying MRCE. Officially the end of the 'Dispolok' name on locomotives.
MRCE ES64F4 (ex Dispolok): fleet composition
Siemens orginally built 45 locomotives for its Dispolok-fleet. Next to new locomotives, the pool also became an asylum for former prototype locomotives (DB 189 001-003) and units that became obsolete after cancelling other contracts (SBB Re474s).
Between 2003 and 2005 a first batch of 30 machines was built, ES64F4 001-018 being sub type 189-VD, and ES64F4 088-099 planned as sub type 189-VE. In 2006 and 2007 15 additional machines (ES64F4 019-033) joined the Dispolok fleet, partially delivered after MRCE had taken over.
ES64F4 003-005: former DB prototypesES64F4 003-005 were originally built for DB Schenker, designated 189 001-003, but after the completing the trail phase for the DB, it was decided to replace them by three new machines, identical to the series, 189 004-100. All three were repainted, retrofitted as sub type VD and integrated into the Siemens Dispolok fleet in spring 2004.
ES64F4 019-020: originally built for SBB CargoApril 2006: two machines originally built for SBB Cargo, but never delivered as they were damaged during trials runs at the Siemens test centre in Wegberg-Wildenrath, are integrated into the fleet. Re 474 007 and 008 become ES64F4 019 and 020.
E189 929: a special case May 2007: A ES 64 F4-029 never existed. This unit presented itself in 2007 as E 189 929 with a special black livery with Siemens logos, as VD-version. Not much later, the machine was retrofitted in Munich, and re-appeared as ES 64 F4-400, version VI. It was the first 'downgraded' unit for the Italian domestic market. It is still a four-system locomotive, but its software and safety equipment can only communicate in Italy. The machine has only two pantographs.
ES64F4 locomotives sold to customers MRCE is also open for selling locomotives to operators. In September 2006, MRCE sold ES64F4 001-005 to one of its larger customers; Rail Traction Company (RTC) from Italy.
In December 2006, Lokomotion also purchased five machines. At first ES64F4 006-010 were selected, but there were problems with the contracts for 006, 008-010, at that moment still operated by the Austrian State Railways. Finally MRCE decided to sell ES64F4 007, 012, 014, 017 and 018 in stead.
MRCE ES64F4 (ex Dispolok): renumbering
With the completion of the first machines belonging to the latest 50-unit order, in September 2008, a new numbering system was introduced for all ES 64 F4-series locomotives of MRCE Dispolok. Leading argument for a service number is now the country specific configuration of a locomotive. New units were delivered with new numbers, the existing fleet had to be renumbered.
In 2008 Siemens started an extensive program of testing and refitting many ES 64 F4s, for operators such as RTC, Lokomotion, SBB Cargo and MRCE Dispolok. The Siemens test center in Wegberg-Wildenrath (DE) is since then home to large numbers of these machines that have to get many new and many different safety and signalling systems. Next to the introduction of new configuration to the majority of existing the MRCE Dispolok fleet, also the introduction of the new Italian SCMT system and the European ECTS were incorporated in this program.
Around Christmas 2008, first two units of the existing fleet were released from Wegberg-Wildenrath again, having a new package and a new service number; ES 64 F4-204 and 205, the new idenity for ES 64 F4-021 and 022, in the future homologated for the Netherlands, Germany and Poland, representing the new Class189-VO configuration. With the 204, the white front on machines that did not get the MRCE black livery yet was introduced, as this is obligatory for running in the Netherlands.
An overview of the new MRCE Dispolok numbering system, as far as this is known:
number serie
configuration
ES 64 F4-000-049
class189-VD
ES 64 F4-050-099
class189-VE
ES 64 F4-101-149
class189-VL
ES 64 F4-150-199
class189-VM
ES 64 F4-200-249
class189-VO
ES 64 F4-280-299
class189-VK
ES 64 F4-400-449
class189-VI
ES 64 F4-450-499
class189-VP
The next table gives an overview of all renumbered (and refitted) ES 64 F4 units of the exsiting MRCE Dispolok fleet. For many machines the refitting also included a repaint in black.
new number
new configuration
old number
old configuration
first spotted
ES 64 F4-150
189-VM
ES 64 F4-020
189-VD
04.2009
ES 64 F4-200
189-VO
ES 64 F4-006
189-VH
02.2009
ES 64 F4-201
189-VO
ES 64 F4-011
189-VH
11.2009
ES 64 F4-202
189-VO
ES 64 F4-013
189-VD
05.2009
ES 64 F4-203
189-VO
ES 64 F4-019
189-VD
02.2009
ES 64 F4-204
189-VO
ES 64 F4-021
189-VD
12.2008
ES 64 F4-205
189-VO
ES 64 F4-022
189-VD
12.2008
ES 64 F4-206
189-VO
ES 64 F4-025
189-VD
06.2009
ES 64 F4-207
189-VO
ES 64 F4-028
189-VK
12.2009
ES 64 F4-209
189-VO
ES 64 F4-033
189-VK
12.2009
ES 64 F4-400
189-VI
E 189-929
189-VD
09.2008
MRCE ES64F4 (ex Dispolok): Select your Locomotive:
Stock list of the MRCE-Dispolok ES64F4 series, purchased from Siemens Dispolok.
The units marked with grey are no longer part of the fleet (under that number). They either are sold to other companies or they have been renumbered.
The DB decided to close a deal with MRCE back in 2006; 189 090-099 were sold MRCE, and then rented back from the Japanese leasing company. The DB gets 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.
189 092 and 093 lost their Railion logos at the end of 2007
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 5 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 and they were selected to undergo a true metamorphose. In Berlin, both got a complete repaint in black and white, then to be transported to Siemens in Munich for retrofitting additional train detection equipment, upgrade their software and to mount two extra pantographs. After that, the units were ready for services in Germany and the Netherlands. Their equipment configuration is since then known as 189-VJ.
189 090 and 095 were the first to be repainted in black in December 2007!
In January 2008, 189 090 was the very first to leave Munich. Minor alterations were made to its basic livery and the new MRCE Dispolok logos were added. 189 092 got the same look. 189 093-095, to be hired to Veolia, did not get all these logos, as they were soon (again) restyled in Veolia colours.
The new MRCE Dispolok designation of these machines caused some problems. It would be logical to rename then as ES 64 F4-09x, but MRCE already operated locomotives with these numbers. For a short while there were two ES 64 F4-094s, as the former DB 189 094 got this number by mistake. It seems not be easy to decide what to call these machines then, so 189 090/092-095 were all delivered with only 'ES 64 F4' up front, which makes it a bit harder to identify them. The smaller Cesifer and UIC numbers can help out on this.
189 091 and 096-099 kept their red livery until September 2008. Like the other five machines they were retrofitted as sub type VJ in the first months of 2008 (hence the white front and UIC service numbers) but as they were rented out to DB Schenker again when they returned from the workshops, repainting was postponed.
At the end of September 2008, DB Schenker returned 189 091/096-099 to MRCE Dispolok, and all five arrived at Seddin (Germany) on 30.09.2008. From there they were transported to Berlin-Ruhleben, waiting for a make-over in black. On 13.09.2008 the first three, 091/096/097, were first spotted in their new MCRE livery. Most remarkable about the machines was that they did have complete MRCE Dispolok service numbers: ES 64 F4-991/996/997. The former 189 090/092-095 were still running around without a proper number by that time.
By the end of October, also ES 64 F4-998 and -999 were ready for service. -999 got an additional name while being repainted: Mike. All machines were still representing the VJ-configuration and were rented out to Dutch freight operators ERS Railways and ACTS.
MRCE ES64F4 (ex DB): Select your locomotive:
Stock list of the MRCE-Dispolok ES64F4 series, purchased from DB Schenker in 2006.
In 2006 Mitsui Rail Capital Europe, a leasing company from Amsterdam and a subsidiary of Japan-based Mitsui Corporation, decided to take over the complete Dispolok fleet from Siemens Transportation systems.
With its Dispolok pool, Siemens was increasingly competing with its own potential customers, so it was decided to sell it and to focus more on their core business again: building locomotives. Of course, the transaction was also financially attractive, raising money which can be invested in developing new products.
In October 2006, Mitsui, got official permission from the European Union to take over Dispolok GmbH. The deal also included an order for fifty new units, the first order from a leasing company for Siemens, which are covered in this section. There are two different sub series, of which one is a first-timer. Thirty units will be normal four-tension machines, like all other ES 64 F4 platform machines up till then, the other twenty will bunits for 3kV DC voltage systems only, or to be more precise, built for the Italian and Polish domestic market and a direct opponent of Bombardier’s Traxx2E DC series.
At the end of 2007, Siemens started to build the very first frames and bodies for these new batches, but already in the spring of 2007 we could see a glimpse of what was to come; The very last ES 64 F4 locomotive, part of the initial Dispolok batch of 45, was delivered in black, the first step in finding the new corporate identity for MRCE Dispolok. The machine intially got service number E189-929 and was a fully fledged VD configurated unit. In 2008 the machine was reconfigured (and renumbered from ES 64 F1-001 to ES 64 F4-400) so that it could only run under 3kV voltage systems, the first sign of MRCE Dispolok wanting to differentiate its fleet more. This so called VI-configuration was a next step in a program soon to incorporate many different versions, together covering all needs of operators throughout Europe.
At the end of 2009, it became clear that Siemens and MRCE Dispolok had renegotioted the contract. MRCE Dispolok decided to order twenty additional units, bringing the total amount on a staggering 70 units, incorporating 8 different configurations:
5x VD > ES 64 F4- 034 to 038
6x VE > ES 64 F4- 082 to 087
9x VI > ES 64 F4- 401 to 409
11x VK > ES 64 F4- 280 to 290
15x VL > ES 64 F4- 101 tot 115 (however delivered as VE, as the approval for Belgium was not there yet at that time)
9x VM > ES 64 F4- 151 to 159
5x VO > ES 64 F4- 208 and 210 to 213
10x VP > ES 64 F4- 450 to 459
First newly built machines representing the MRCE Dispolok order left the Siemens factories in September 2008. On 29.08.2008 two black painted units with provisory numbers einding with '189 401' and '189 402' were transported to Siemens' test center Wegberg-Wildenrath, hauled by ES 64 F4-006. Since that month Siemens is gradually releasing new black machines, all going to Wegberg in sometimes impressive (up to 8-9 units) convoys. Delivery will end in 2010.
Revenue services with new units started at the end of 2009. The VI-configurated units were the first, starting in Italy, with Nordcargo, Rail Italia and CFI as lessors. CTL Logistics hired most of the new VO units, and several VKs were hired to ERSR, TXL and again CTL Logistics. Przewozy Regionalne from Poland was the first to use VP-units: they hired unit 457 and 458 in January 2010.
In March 2011, MRCE Dispolok bought another five ES 64 F4 locomotives for its pool. All five were selected from the Siemens stock pool. The white 189 840-844 (version VM) were selected to be painted black by Dangelmayr in Berlin. This was done in April 2011. Renumbered ES 64 F4-840 to 844, they were delivered to MRCE Dispolok in April-May 2011.
Alstom
MRCE's 
189 092 and 093 lost their Railion logos at the end of 2007
189 090 and 095 were the first to be repainted in black in December 2007!
