PKP Cargo International, a subsidiary of the PKP CARGO Group and a major logistics operator in Europe, has recently taken on a long-term lease of the Dragon 2 electric locomotive from its parent company, PKP CARGO.
The multi-system ET43 locomotive (Newag Dragon2), is one of 21 locomotives that PKP CARGO S.A. already operates. All of these locomotives are equipped for operation under the ETCS system in the Czech Republic. This particular locomotive will be primarily used on the Čadca – Ostrava – Kúty route, as well as on main tracks within the Czech Republic as needed.
The ET43 series locomotive is an electric multi-system vehicle designed for freight transport on standard gauge (1435 mm) tracks. It has a maximum speed of 120 km/h, a power output of 5 MW, and a maximum tractive effort of 420kN. Each of its six axles is powered by an asynchronous motor with an output of 842 kW, enabling it to haul freight trains up to a maximum allowable weight of 4000 tons. The locomotive can operate on both DC 3kV and AC 25 kV power systems in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, including border stations in other countries. It is also equipped with a mobile version of the European Train Control System (ETCS Level 3) provided by Siemens, which is available in the Czech Republic.
The addition of this locomotive is seen as an opportunity to rejuvenate the company's locomotive fleet, enhancing its competitiveness in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It will also be used for further training of the company's employees, especially train drivers who have been gradually familiarizing themselves with this type of locomotive since last year.
