The first DB 245 series locomotive was presented at InnoTrans 2012. At that moment, DB had placed a firm order of twenty units for services around Kempten (7), Mühldorf (8, Sudostbayernbahn) and five for Frankfurt-Griesheim. For the Multi Engine diesel locomotive at the fair (the designated unit 245 003 for DB Regio) Bombardier reserved a special works number; no. 35000.
The DB 245 series is the first representative of a new TRAXX product: the Bombardier TRAXX DE Multi Engine. It has four smaller, diesel engines, which are normally used for other industrial purposes. The Technische Universität Dresden was consulted to perform a study to the biggest challenge of the ME, the regulation of these four diesel engines and optimalization their combined performance. Of course, the outcome of this study tries to maximize the concept, but the ideal state will never become reality. Locomotives are not always used on the same location, in the same service etc. although this would be ideal for getting the most out of the concept.
Bombardier also had to let go a bit of its modularity philosophy of its TRAXX platform. The body and frame of the locomotive had to be re-dimensioned. As the engine all have their own hatch for service and maintenance, this resulted in (not esthetically optimzed) many holes in both sides of the engine, requiring extra fortification of the wall construction of the locomotive.
It is clear to Bombardier, the multi engine concept is the key feature of all there future locomotive products. With the Dual Mode for the US market (also having two diesel engines) and this project, it now has good references and experiences. And the Multi Engine is not restricted to the use of combustion engines only. It is not unthinkable that one diesel-module will be replaced by a battery pack for example.
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine: news
2017
2017-05-12
[DE] Third TRAXX DE ME for Ulm is out: DB Regio 245 037
update 2017|05|12
[DE] Third TRAXX DE ME for Ulm is out: DB Regio 245 037
[DE] DB Fernverkehr 245 fuel tank rebuilding well underway
update 2017|04|24
[DE] DB Fernverkehr 245 fuel tank rebuilding well underway
DB 245 026-0 outside Bombardier's Kassel plant on 10 February 2017. Picture by Christian Klotz.
Between September 2015 and June 2016, Bombardier delivered seven Class 245 TRAXX Multi Engine locomotives to DB Fernverkehr for use on its Sylt Shuttle services to and from Westerland (Sylt). All seven locos were equipped with a standard 2,720 liter fuel tank, similar to other locos of the class as delivered to DB Regio. Meanwhile, it has been decided to upgrade the seven locos with larger tanks, increasing the fuel capacity to 4,230 liter. One by one, the locos are being modified by Bombardier in Kassel.
[DE] New batch of Multi Engine diesel locomotives for Deutsche Bahn under construction
update 2017|04|21
[DE] New batch of Multi Engine diesel locomotives for Deutsche Bahn under construction
Bombardier is currently building a new batch of Multi Engine diesel locomotives for Deutsche Bahn. On 30.03.2017 the designated 245 035 made a first test run, on 20.04.2017 the 245 036 had its turn. Both locomotives will be dispatched to Ulm, as they carry the allocation markings "DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) Werk Ulm". We expect Ulm will get three new machines.
Currently, Deutsche Bahn has nine TRAXX DE ME locomotives on order, which will raise the fleet to 36:
- 3x for DB Regio to expand the fleet in South Germany
- 5x for DB Fernverkehr as ICE rescue locomotives
- 1x for DB Fernverkehr for the IC service Erfurt - Gera
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2017-03-21
[DE] Multi Engine TRAXX pulls IC trains in the south of Germany
update 2017|03|21
[DE] Multi Engine TRAXX pulls IC trains in the south of Germany
On 15.03.2017, 245 002 from DB Regio Kempten was on a test run pulling IC 2012 / 2013 from Immenstadt to Stuttgart. The video shows the 2013 service near Bad Grönenbach. Video: Månuel Såttlerssøn
DB Regio currently has three new TRAXX DE Multi-Engine locomotives on order for operation in the south of Germany.
A close-up of DB Regio 245 013, that carries a small sticker on its cab. The heart shaped vinyl says in southern dialect: -I mog die SOB-. DB Regio now has twenty TRAXX DE ME locomotives on its fleet (245 001-020) used fro various services in southern Germany. Three more are on order. Photo: Ernst Lauer
[DE] Deutsche Bahn orders another eight TRAXX DE ME locomotives
update 2016|10|19
[DE] Deutsche Bahn orders another eight TRAXX DE ME locomotives
Railjournal reports: Deutsche Bahn confirms calling of eight more TRAXX DE Multi Engine diesel locomotives from its 200 locomotive frame contract with Bombardier. Five will be used by DB Fernverkehr as ICE rescue locomotives throughout Germany, replacing older Class 218 locomotives. The other three will be delivered to DB Regio to further expand its fleet in South Germany.
In 2011, DB placed a framework order for up to 200 TRAXX Multi Engine diesel locomotives. The first 20 locomotives ordered under this agreement entered service for DB Regio in South Germany (stationed at Bw Mühldorf and Bw Kempten) and in the Frankfurt am Main area. Another seven were ordered for use on DB Fernverkehr's Sylt Shuttle between Niebüll and Westerland (Sylt).
Nahne Johannsen just sent us the first image of DB Fernverkehr's
245 027 (REV FKR X 29.06.16) in use by its new owner. With 245 021-027 now all being delivered, the batch of 7 is complete. Remarkable: Unit 245 026 is the only of its series with a check digit on its fronts.
[DE] Back on the right track: DB Regio 245 008 leaves Kassel
update 2016|07|05
[DE] Back on the right track: DB Regio 245 008 leaves Kassel
Bombardier has finished repairs on the damaged DB Regio 245 008 and released it from its Kassel works on July 4th. Subsequently, the loco headed back to the DB depot in Mühldorf.
This week, the newest TRAXX locomotive for DB Fernverkehr completed its maiden run. On 28.06.2016 the machine completed its first round. - Christian Klotz
This morning: Maiden run of the new 245 026 for Sylt shuttles. One more to go to complete the batch of 7 (245 021-027) for DB Fernverkehr. - Christian Klotz
On May 4, DB Fernverkehr 245 025 made its delivery run from Kassel to Niebüll. Jens Vollertsen and Henk Zwoferink were able to capture the locomotive on camera in Niebüll on May 5.
This picture (link) shows DB Fernverkehr 245 025 heading towards Hannover near Salzderheiden on May 3. Most likely, the loco was on delivery run, but we're still looking for confirmation on this.
[DE] Coming to Sylt: DB Fernverkehr 245 024 delivered
update 2016|04|02
[DE] Coming to Sylt: DB Fernverkehr 245 024 delivered
New in the fleet of DB Fernverkehr: 245 024 with REV 22.03.2016. On 01.04.2016 the machine left the Bombardier factory in Kassel and started its northbound voyage, to Sylt. Christian Klotz.
This picture by Nahne Johannsen shows that DB Fernverkehr 245 023 has performed its first duties in revenue service between Niebüll and Westerland (Sylt).
[DE] Sylt: Paribus series 245 complete, delivery DB Fernverkehr 245 series
update 2016|02|29
[DE] Sylt: Paribus series 245 complete, delivery DB Fernverkehr 245 series
With the arrival of the repaired 245 204, Paribus > NAH.sh now has all fifteen TRAXX DE Multi Engine locomotive available for its Sylt services, performed by operator NOB (the designated 245 201-215).
Also new: DB Fernverkehr still awaits the delivery of five more TRAXX DE Multi Engine locomotives for its car shuttles to Sylt. Starting in March, Bombardier will deliver one machine per month, so the series of seven will be complete in July. BTW, we have already seen 245 023 around Kassel.
On 23.02.2016, DB Fernverkehr's future Sylt locomotive 245 023 had its maiden run. Note the absence of the 'Zugzielanzeiger' and the LED headlights. (Christian Klotz)
The German railways have published their experience with the seven new 245 series locomotives (Bombardier Traxx DE Multi Engine), now being in revenue service for one year. NOx emission -50%, 9% of fuel savings compared to the old 218 series locos. As the 245s have diesel soot particle filters installed, the emission of particles has dropped with 90%. (Deutsche Bahn)
A second Multi Engine TRAXX for DB Fernverkehr has recently been outshopped by Bombardier in Kassel: 245 022. And today, the brand new locomotive showed itself outside the gates.
Unlike the 20 Multi Engine locos for DB Regio, the DB Fernverkehr locomotives have LED front lights and a higher power rating. 245 021-027 are equipped with four 600kW diesel engines each, delivering 2400kW in total. With 2252kW, the DB Regio locomotives are nearly 150kW less powerful.
On 15.10.2015, DB Regio 245 008 has returned to Kassel, damaged. The locomotive crashed into a car on 03.10.2015 in Thalham (line München – Simbach). (Christian Klotz)
[DE] DB Fernverkehr 245 021 operates its first Sylt Shuttles
update 2015|10|13
[DE] DB Fernverkehr 245 021 operates its first Sylt Shuttles
On October 12, the brand new 245 021 of DB Fernverkehr had its first outings on car shuttles to and from Sylt. The locomotive was used to power two shuttle pairs to and from the island that day. (Andreas Melchert)
[DE] DB and NAH.SH Multi Engine Traxx locos joint testing
update 2015|03|06
[DE] DB and NAH.SH Multi Engine Traxx locos joint testing
On March 5, NAH.SH 245 201-9 and DB Regio 245 001 could be seen heading for Bremervörde, while sandwiching a Metronom driving trailer. Similar to the combination of 245 201 and 146 553 last week, this composition will be used for testing the new "Zugwendesteuerung" (push-pull control system). - PMR
[DE] DB Regio 245 012 with -Südostbayernbahn- markings
update 2015|02|23
[DE] DB Regio 245 012 with -Südostbayernbahn- markings
For the first time we have received an image of a DB Regio 245 series locomotive sporting the -Südostbayernbahn- name on its side. Locomotives 245 008-015 run for the Südostbayernbahn, a subsidiary of DB Regio. They are allocated to Mühldorf depot. - DrGB
Two images of DB Regio's new 245 017. Both nightly images show the locomotive in every day service, pulling a Regional Express to Frankfurt. One image was taken in Friedberg with the RE 15293 Nidda - Frankfurt. The second one
in Glauburg-Stockheim with RE 15556 from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. - AH/SC
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2015-01-14
[DE] The Multi Engines of Frankfurt-Griesheim
update 2015|01|14
[DE] The Multi Engines of Frankfurt-Griesheim
Five DB Regio Multi Engine Traxx-locomotives are now allocated at the Frankfurt-Griesheim depot: no. 245 016-020. On 13.12.2014 a line-up with all five machines was organized, resulting in these nice images. - AH
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2014
2014-12-03
[DE] DB 245 series developments [updatedx2]
update 2014|12|03
[DE] DB 245 series developments [updatedx2]
One type of driving van trailer (DBpbzfa 766) has been given a preliminary approval for push-pull operations with the new multi engine Traxx locomotives, valid until 26 February 2015. The Sudostbayernbahn has three such driving vans in its fleet. Another three are of slightly older type DBpbzfa 765.5 and need various modifications before they are cleared to operate with 245 series locomotives. DB Regio 245 012 (allocated in Mühldorf) was seen today pushing its train (RB 27040) from Mühldorf to Munich.
DB has performed a one-time only test with a 245 series locomotives in freight services. Interesting images can be found here of DB Regio 245 014 with a tank car train (and a spare locomotive in the back).
Newbie 245 015 arrived at Mühldorf on 25 November.
Bombardier has completed the construction of all twenty Traxx DE Multi Engine locomotives for DB Regio. The last machines are now doing their maiden run. On 13.11.2014, unit 245 017 had its turn. - CK
Rolling stock coming home from Berlin. Vectron DE 247 901 is now fully homologated for Germany. It therefore could take itself home, in this case the Siemens' test center in Wegberg-Wildenrath. It is pulling a train including the PCW8 EuroSprinter and a C2-metro for Munich. - NE/WS
Railadventure's 139 558 brought a Innotrans transfer-train to Bad Schandau-Ost. After leaving the Skoda RegioPanther there the journey continued back to Dresden. Behind the 139 there was also the Bombardier 245 014, 187 009 and the CD Railjet coaches. The picture shows the train ready for departure from Dresden heading westwards, probably going to Leipzig. - BW
DB Cargo Traxx AC3DB Traxx DE Multi EngineSiemens Vectron locos used for test and promotion
2014-09-20
[EU] Coming to the InnoTrans: Bombardier Traxx (2)
update 2014|09|20
[EU] Coming to the InnoTrans: Bombardier Traxx (2)
Back to back, or better, head to back. Little paper tell the people working on the line-up at InnoTrans which side of the locomotives needs to come first. The image shows Traxx DE ME no. 245 014 for DB Regio (left) and Traxx AC3 Last Mile187 009 which does have the livery of the DB too, but does not have any logos... What does that mean? - SC
Locomotive 245 010 made a trip today, coming from the Kassel factory. This is the third unit to be delivered to the Südostbayernbahn and will be allocated in Mühldorf. - CK
[DE] DB orders Traxx DE Multi Engine for its Sylt shuttles
update 2014|06|06
[DE] DB orders Traxx DE Multi Engine for its Sylt shuttles
Not only the Schlesweg-Holstein Bundesland will employ Traxx Multi Engine locomotives to the Sylt. Today Bombardier announces that the German railways will get seven such machines for its DB Autozug Sylt shuttle services. They will replace the aged 218 series diesel locomotives. The DB expects that one locomotive will be able to replace two 218s. This order is part of the framework agreement of the DB and Bombardier for these machines. DB now has 27 Traxx DE Multi Engine locomotives on order. The complete press text:
Deutsche Bahn AG and Bombardier Transportation have signed a contract for the supply of seven TRAXX diesel multi-engine locomotives. The total contract value based on the list price is approximately 27 million euro ($37 million US). It is a call-off under a framework agreement with DB AG from 2011 for up to 200 TRAXX diesel multi-engine locomotives.
The locomotives will be used for a 40 km long shuttle route to pull car shuttle trains between the island of Sylt and the German mainland. Their innovative engine concept individually controls the output of each of the four engines working in parallel, thus minimizing energy consumption. This is particularly important during the frequent shunting manoeuvres - the whole manoeuvre will be powered by one small engine while the other three remain switched off.
The TRAXX diesel multi-engine locomotive is more eco-friendly and quieter than comparable diesel locomotives with a similar performance. Its total engine capacity of nearly 2,400 kW ensures outstanding performance and traction; while the shuttle previously required two locomotives, one locomotive will be enough for this service from now on. The first two TRAXX locomotives will be deployed at the end of 2015. From mid-2016 the new locomotives will replace the old class 218 locomotives completely.
"Our investment in new diesel locomotives demonstrates that we are strengthening our company for future transportation demands," said Alfred Onken, head of Sylt shuttle. "The engines comply with the Stage IIIB emission standards and thus contribute to the strategy DB 2020."
"The TRAXX diesel multi-engine locomotive is particularly beneficial to the operator - both economically and ecologically - on short shuttle routes like this," added Ulrich Jochem, President Locomotives, Bombardier Transportation. "It will contribute to relieving the stress on the island's delicate ecosystem while residents will enjoy the reduced noise level of the new locomotives."
[DE] Allgäu-Schwaben: Traxx DE ME in revenue service
update 2014|06|03
[DE] Allgäu-Schwaben: Traxx DE ME in revenue service
As of June 2, 2014, the Traxx DE Multi Engine locomotive is in revenue service in southern Germany. DB Regio Allgäu-Schwaben is now using the first 245 series locomotive for double deck trains running from and to Kempten, Marktoberdorf, Buchloe and Augsburg. In total, this department of DB Regio will get seven such locomotives (Unit 245 001-007).
At this moment, three of seven machines have arrived in Kempten, the home base of this regio. They have already covered 7.000 km in test service. The remaining locomotives are expcted to arrive in the second half of 2014. They will than be used on the relations Memmingen - München, Kempten - München and Füssen - München/Augsburg.
The German railways also provide the time table of the first locomotive in service:
RE 57433 von Kempten nach München, Kempten ab 4:28 Uhr
RE 57436 von München nach Marktoberdorf, München ab 6:20 Uhr
RE 57339 von Marktoberdorf nach Augsburg, Marktoberdorf ab 8:25 Uhr
RE 57564 von Augsburg nach Buchloe, Augsburg ab 10:15 Uhr
Meanwhile, also DB Regio's department Südostbayernbahn is preparing for the introduction of the Traxx DE Multi Engine locomotives. They will get eight new machines that are currently in production.
The newest machine that has been seen at the Bombardier factory perimeter in Kassel is no. 245 011. The title picture shows unit 245 008 during the official presentation by the Südostbayernbahn and Bombardier on May 22, 2014. - Bombardier/CK
[DE] Bombardier and the SOB present the Traxx DE ME today
update 2014|05|22
[DE] Bombardier and the SOB present the Traxx DE ME today
Today, Bombardier and the Südostbayernbahn will officially present the Traxx Multi Engine diesel locomotive in Mühldorf (DE). Meanwhile, test runs are made in normal service. The image shows locomotive 245 008 with a RegionalExpress ready to go in Munich. - MH
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2014-04-15
[DE] Traxx Multi Engine arrives at the Südostbayernbahn
update 2014|04|15
[DE] Traxx Multi Engine arrives at the Südostbayernbahn
On 10.04.2014, Traxx Multi Engine no.008 left the Bombardier factory in Kassel. Meanwhile, it has arrived in Mühldorf. It is the first engine to be operated by DB subsidiary Südostbayernbahn. This operator will get eight locomotives of of the first batch of 20. They will be predominantly used to haul double deck trains on the Simbach - München relation. They will replace the good old 218 series DB locomotives.
Currently, 008 is being used for tests. On Monday the locomotive pulled a test train to Augsburg with a top speed of 160 kph. - CK/pnp.deDB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2014-04-01
[DE] DB 245 001 testing at Dresden - Görlitz [updated]
update 2014|04|01
[DE] DB 245 001 testing at Dresden - Görlitz [updated]
This week, locomotive 245 001, with Bombardier logos, is testing on the route Dresden - Görlitz with a double deck train. - KAR/NG/TF
245 001 with Bombardier logos. 3x DB Fernverkehr 146 in a row: 146 551, 552 and 561. These three machines left Kassel for Hannover, continuing their travel northbound. - DSO/CK
DB Fernverkehr Traxx AC2DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
[DE] DB Multi Engine Traxx over the Hindenburgdamm [updated]
update 2014|02|19
[DE] DB Multi Engine Traxx over the Hindenburgdamm [updated]
They are being built for hauling passenger trains in the south of Germany, but on 17.02.2014, locomotive 245 006 and 007 made a trip to the very north of the country: to Niebüll.
On 18.02.2014, 245 007 hauled DB car shuttle trains to the island of Sylt, over the Hindenburgdamm causeway. Apparently, the German railways (DB) want to know its performances on this very specific route. Over the years the DB already tested many mainline diesel locomotive types on this line, but still no decision has been made what type will/could replace the good old V160s here. Currently, these V160 machines haul the car shuttle trains in pairs.
Yesterday, Multi Engine locomotive DB Regio 245 004-7 took two double deck coaches (DB S-Bahn Dresden) out of the Bombardier factory. The locomotive remained. - CK
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2014-01-09
[DE] Multi Engine test runs
update 2014|01|09
[DE] Multi Engine test runs
Today, test runs with the recently homologated Traxx Multi engine locomotives have started. Unit 245 002 and 006 and rake of double deck coaches. - MR
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2013
2013-12-17
[DE] Traxx DE Multi Engine homologated for Germany
update 2013|12|17
[DE] Traxx DE Multi Engine homologated for Germany
The Federal Railway Authority of Germany (Railcolor: EBA) has authorised the Bombardier Traxx P160 Diesel Multi-Engine locomotive in a record time of just 11 weeks. It is the first new vehicle to have passed the new authorisation process for rail technology in Germany.
Karl Runge, Vice President Group Authorisation Management, Bombardier Transportation, said: "This success is an important milestone in the development of the authorisation process in Germany and the TRAXX locomotive platform. I thank all those involved at EBA and our partners for their excellent cooperation. With this approval, we have taken an important step towards a more reliable authorisation process in Germany."
The new process is part of the Memorandum of Understanding on the reform of authorisation procedures for rail vehicles, which was signed by the Federal Ministry of Transport, the Federal Railway Authority and leading representatives of the German railway sector in June. The reform of the procedures permits operational testing of railway technology by private organizations to some extent. EBA is the body that legally ratifies all authorisation of rail technology in Germany.
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2013-12-13
[DE] Multi Engine series production
update 2013|12|13
[DE] Multi Engine series production
Series production of the Traxx Multi Engine for DB Regio is well on its way. Direct prove are these images of the fresh and new 245 006. Read more about these locomotives in our DB 245 series section.
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2013-07-01
[DE] Test run of the day: Traxx DE ME 245 004
update 2013|07|01
[DE] Test run of the day: Traxx DE ME 245 004
Seen today at Kassel Wilhelmshohe station, the newest Traxx DE ME released from factory, no. 245 004 together with two coaches and the light grey 146 553. - CK
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2013-06-27
[DE] Serie production has started: DB Regio 245 004
update 2013|06|27
[DE] Serie production has started: DB Regio 245 004
Today, the brand new Traxx DE Multi Engine no. 245 004 left the Bombardier factory in Kassel. Remarkable is that several grids are not red, yet, but silver. - CK
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2013-06-13
[DE] 12 diesel engines in Kassel
update 2013|06|13
[DE] 12 diesel engines in Kassel
Traxx DE Multi Engine locomotives 245 001, 002 and 003 are in Kassel right now. This morning the 001 and 002 went out for a trial run. - CK
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2013-05-07
[DE] Traxx parade
update 2013|05|07
[DE] Traxx parade
This afternoon in Kassel, a little Traxx parade. 76 102 and 245 001- went out for a trial run. 245 002 was also around. Last in row is Alpha Trains 185 525. - CK
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2013-04-25
[DE] Traxx DE ME proves its power
update 2013|04|25
[DE] Traxx DE ME proves its power
During last weekend’s test drives on the line between Mühldorf and Markt Schwaben (Bavaria, Germany) the new Bombardier Traxx DE ME locomotive hauled as many as nine double deck cars in single traction while at the same time supplying the train with electricity. The focus of the test drives was on the regulation of the four diesel engines which
went smoothly; other areas (push-pull operation and parallel bus bar supply) are being optimized during further test drives.
Sudostbayernbahn has purchased eight Multi Engine locomotives for operation on the main line between Simbach and Munich, starting in mid-2014. The new powerful locomotives, which can run at a top speed of 160 kilometers per hour, comply with the EU’s 2012 exhaust emission standards Stage IIIB. Moreover, they operate with lower noise emissions than the previous diesel locomotives – this is, particularly for densely populated areas like Munich, an important feature. - Bombardier
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2013-04-19
[DE] Multi Engine Traxx: First test runs with passenger trains
update 2013|04|19
[DE] Multi Engine Traxx: First test runs with passenger trains
During the upcoming weekend, two Multi Engine Traxx locomotives will be tested with double deck coaches in various compositions, under the direction of the Südostbayernbahn. Units 245 002 and 003 have therefore arrived in Munich. According to this post on DSO, the two machines will make trial runs with compositions ranging from five to nine (empty) coaches. The compatibility of the locomotives with rolling stock in push pull service, in sandwich and double traction will be evaluated.
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2013-04-17
[DE] Kassel runs today
update 2013|04|17
[DE] Kassel runs today
We stay in Kassel for this item. Two pictures from the area. Two Multi Engine diesels and MRCE locomotive 185 408-2 with a false VKM-number. The number is German, starting with 91 80, but the keeper marker is Austrian, A-TXLA. - CK
[DE] Traxx DE Multi Engine now tested on German rail network
update 2013|04|04
[DE] Traxx DE Multi Engine now tested on German rail network
The Bombardier Traxx DE Multi Engine locomotives currently are being tested throughout Germany: the locomotives received the last official declarations of no-objection on German public rail networks on 25.03.2013. That same day, one locomotive was transferred towards the Black Forest, where the adhesion control system was tested, also at
very difficult conditions.
Prior to this test, the locomotive was already being put through its paces on the test ring in Velim [CZ], for optimization tests, also with its top speed of 160km/h for the first time. The interaction of the four diesel engines, amongst other things, was tested – with good results.
On 26-27.03.2013 two Traxx DE ME locomotives were in operation in double traction on their way between Kassel and Hannover respectively Kassel and Kreiensen. In these test runs the distribution of tractive effort between the locomotives was checked as well as the control of the diesel engines on both locomotives. Also, the share of brake forces of each locomotive was checked at different braking conditions. During these test runs the data communication between the locomotives was monitored. - Bombardier
[CZ] Engine Management of TRAXX DE Multi Engine optimized
update 2013|03|15
[CZ] Engine Management of TRAXX DE Multi Engine optimized
The Bombardier TRAXX Diesel Multi Engine is making further progress: The first part of its test runs for optimizing the management of its diesel engine has been completed at the test circle in Velim, CZ, with a good interim result. On this 13 kilometer long test circle in the East of Prague, rail vehicles can be tested with speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour. The purpose of the test runs was to further enhance the interaction of the four diesel engines during traction operation. Additional tests, including special parameters like simulated poor track conditions, will be conducted during the dynamic commissioning, which is presently taking place. - Bombardier
[CZ/DE] TRAXX DE Multi Engine successful at first braking tests
update 2013|03|01
[CZ/DE] TRAXX DE Multi Engine successful at first braking tests
A further success for the BOMBARDIER TRAXX Diesel Multi-Engine locomotive: First braking tests at the test circle in Velim [CZ] yielded positive results. The locomotive has been operating on the test circle since the beginning of this week and will remain there for the several more. Following brake testing, motor control testing will take place. Here the interaction of the four diesel engines in traction mode will be optimized. Next, the adhesion control, slip control and slide control will then be in focus. - Bombardier
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2013-02-22
[DE] Multi Engine Traxx update
update 2013|02|22
[DE] Multi Engine Traxx update
With all of its four diesel engines running, the Bmbardier Traxx DE Multi Engine was recently under way on the manufacturer’s Kassel site. At the moment the locomotive is being put through the last functional tests and measurements on the load testing rig. The tests have been so successful that the first locomotive was conveyed to the test circle in Velim [CZ] this week. Plans are to test it there for its capability to running long distances, starting end of February.
Prior to the current testing, the propulsion concept with several diesel engines was put through its paces at the Bombardier Power Lab in Zurich, Switzerland. The drive concept was developed together with German universities – and has now been successfully passed testing.- Bombardier
Railcolor: On 19.02.2013, 245 001 and 002 were also seen at the Kassel locomotive site.
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2012
2012-09-26
[DE] INNOTRANS 2012: 4 engines, one locomotive: The TRAXX DE Multi Engine
update 2012|09|26
[DE] INNOTRANS 2012: 4 engines, one locomotive: The TRAXX DE Multi Engine
During InnoTrans 2012, Bombardier's biggest innovation on 1:1 scale was the four engine TRAXX DE locomotive. They even saved a special works number for the locomotive at the fair (the designated unit 245 003); no. 35000.
We are especially curious for the results are in practice, results regarding efficiency, eco-friendlyness (as far as you can call a diesel combustion engine eco-friendly anyway) and the advantages of the redundancy of the concept.
Yesterday was a good day for trainspotting at Kassel. When you drove along the factory area of Bombardier, many different interesting locomotives were visible.
[DE] Traxx DE Multi-Engine for the DB = Baureihe 245
update 2012|06|23
[DE] Traxx DE Multi-Engine for the DB = Baureihe 245
Starting in 2013, Bombardier will deliver the first twenty multi-engine Traxx DE locomotives to the Deutsch Bahn (DE). The new 245 series will be allocated in:
245 001-007 > Kempten
245 008-015 > Mühldorf
245 016-020 > Frankfurt-Griesheim - EK
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2011
2011-12-23
[DE] Eberspaecher provides exhaust technology for the DB multi-engine diesel-Traxx
update 2011|12|23
[DE] Eberspaecher provides exhaust technology for the DB multi-engine diesel-Traxx
Eberspaecher will become the preferred exhaust technology partner for Bombardier’s new Traxx multi-engine platform. The cooperation agreement between Bombardier Transportation and the Esslingen based company covers the development and production of exhaust systems for up to 200 Traxx multi-engine locomotives.
The complete press statement includes a new rendering of the multi engine Traxx. In 2012 Bombardier will start first trials with this new multi-engine concept. Delivery of the first unit is expected for 2013.
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2011-05-14
[DB] 4-engine Traxx locomotives for the Südostbayernbahn (SOB)
update 2011|05|14
[DB] 4-engine Traxx locomotives for the Südostbayernbahn (SOB)
In 2014, the Südostbayernbahn (SOB) will get eight 4-engine Traxx DE locomotives for passenger services. Edit: It is not clear if this is the second order for this type of locomotive, or a selection from the twenty units ordered by DB Regio on 18.04.2011.
At the Transport&Logistics fair, Bombardier spread leaflets with the main technical parameters of the future 4-engine locomotives. It will get four Caterpillar C18 engines with a 2256 kW in total. On the question, if the new units will get the new front-design as presented with the AC3-version, Bombardier answered that the DB favors the current Traxx design, which is more similar to what they already have (Bauheihe 186).
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2011-04-18
[DE] 4-engine Traxx DE for the Deutsche Bahn
update 2011|04|18
[DE] 4-engine Traxx DE for the Deutsche Bahn
It was already hanging in the air this weekend, but now its official:
Bombardier Transportation is taking the Traxx DE to a next level. With the German railways (Deutsche Bahn) a nine-year framework agreement is closed for the delivery of up to 200 locomotives.
Big news is the propulsion-concept of the new generation of diesel locomotives for the DB: it's four smaller 'rugged, heavy-duty industrial diesel engines' with
540 kW each. They offer a more efficient, fuel-saving, environmental friendly alternative to the singe-engine solution. The sub-contractor for the engines is not mentioned, but think of an engine-type that is also used for freight trucks. They are mass-produced...
The picture included in the press-statement shows us a familiar looking locomotive, as the body design is still identical to that of the current Traxx DE products. But looking at the roof construction and the under-frame installations, it is different. The two separate hatches on its side are the best clue for its inside innovations.
For sure, this design can and mos likely will change for future orders. It's a framework agreement for nine (!) years, so there is still a lot possible, passenger service, freight service, and a lot will change in the near future, who knows what kind of locomotive is needed in 2020?
Bombardier now can work towards the first fixed order; 20 units with a top speed of 160 kph for the passenger services of DB Regio. An order worth €62m euro, and delivery will start mid-2013. As always, assembly will take place in Kassel, the bodies come from Wroclaw in Poland and the bogies are to be built in Siegen, Germany.
The DB choosing Bombardier for this order is not illogical, they already have an extensive fleet of Traxx locomotives: 145 series (80), 185.1/2 series (399), 186 series (65), 146.0/1/2 (110 in total), and the 27 recently ordered Traxx ACs for DB's InterCity services.
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
2009
2009-12-29
[EU] DB concern to explore the main line diesel market
update 2009|12|29
[EU] DB concern to explore the main line diesel market
The DB concern has decided to explore the market for main line diesel locomotives once again. This time they want to come to a general agreement with a manufacturer about the delivery of up to 200 main line diesel locomotives. Depending on the contracts the DB is able to obtain in the near future, number, configuration and service domain of these new units will be determined. So units can end up in freight service of DB Schenker in Poland or Euro Cargo Rail in France for example. Or maybe they will haul double stock rakes for DB Regio to Austria, or haul international passenger services of business units that still have to be founded. Be prepared for everything so to say.
Back to the facts:
emission: Stage IIIB, for sub series Stage IIIA is discussable
speed: 140 kph minimum, 160 kph optional
tractive effort: 236 kN minimum, 270 kN should be possible however
energy system: 300 kVA minimum
These new units should be able to haul a 6-car double stock rake with 140 kph, still having an tractive effort surplus of 30 kN. These specifications leave much room for creative solutions from all over the world (think USA/Canada, China, Russia, Germany, France) so it's not very useful to speculate about possible candidates for this order. For sure it will a prestigious matter. We just have to wait and see.
DB Traxx DE Multi Engine
Alstom
The DB 245 series was an 
