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 245

DB 245 MRCE 185.2

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

Railcolor: On 19.02.2013, 245 001 and 002 were also seen at the Kassel locomotive site. DB 245

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.

For all information about the new TRAXX DE Multi Engine, check the section. DB 245 INNOTRANS 2012

First there was the light grey 146 552-5, one of the first units to be completed for DB Transport, to be used with new 'Intercity'-double deck trains. Next was 'Last Mile' 187 001, getting ready for the Innotrans as it has now special flexpanels for this fair. Also around was 245 003-9 for DB Regio, making its first test rounds. Bombardier TRAXX AC3 LM prototypes DB 245 DB Transport 146.5

245 001-007 > Kempten
245 008-015 > Mühldorf
245 016-020 > Frankfurt-Griesheim - EK DB 245 INNOTRANS 2012

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 245

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 245

A framework order for up to 200 4-engine Traxx DE locomotives with the Deutsche Bahn

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 245

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 245