While much of the news from Europe originates from its core, intriguing updates are also emerging from its peripheries. Take Finland, for instance. With its distinct 1,524 mm railway gauge, this Nordic country has some noteworthy developments to share. In 2021, one of its private rail freight operators, Fenniarail, ordered one Siemens Vectron locomotive with an option for four more. Scheduled for delivery in October 2023, the first privately-owned locomotive, designated as 201, has now been manufactured for the Finnish rail freight market. Siemens Mobility is already producing the broad-gauge version of Vectrons for VR Group, which has ordered 80 locomotives with and option for 97 more. Over fifty of them have already been delivered.
Should Fenniarail exercise its option for the additional four Vectrons, it would nearly double its current fleet. Their fleet comprises six Dr18 locomotives, which are high-cab diesel EffiShunters 1600 manufactured by CZ LOKO.
Historically, the Finnish rail market benefited from the transfer of commodities from Russia. However, it was severely impacted by the war in Ukraine due to blockades and resultant sanctions. Both the primary operator, VR Transpoint, and the private operators, such as Fenniarail and Operail Oy, experienced significant repercussions on their shipment volumes and profitability. Interestingly, Estonian-based Operail decided to sell its Finnish operations to North Rail Cargo, a subsidiary of Nurminen Logistics. Most rail transport in Finland is dominated by timber and related products, ranging from sawn timber to paper goods. This sector forms the backbone of Fenniarail's operations. With the addition of the new Vectron locomotive, the company aims to transport heavier loads more sustainably for its clientele.
