Railcare's locomotive workshop in Långsele has begun collaborating with Grenland Rail to upgrade eight former Austrian ÖBB Class 1144 locomotives.
Manufactured between the late 1970s and mid-1990s in Austria, the 1144 locomotives were initially influenced by Swedish railway technology, focusing on optimizing power and reliability. This project brings the locomotives back into a Scandinavian context, adapting them for the demands of Nordic freight traffic.
The contract involves a three-stage upgrade process. Initially, the locomotives undergo an audit of their main components to ensure they are in good condition. The driver's cab is being modernized to offer a more ergonomic environment. The second stage focuses on adapting the locomotives to cope with harsh Nordic climates, including overhauling pantographs and installing climate protection measures. The units will also receive Grenland Rail's livery.
In the final stage, modern onboard systems are installed. Four locomotives will be equipped with ATC (Automatic Train Control), and the other four with ETCS (European Train Control System). All units will feature radio control capabilities. Railcare is responsible for the entire process, from design and integration to managing approval with the European Railway Authority (ERA).
Railcare is overseeing the process to ensure compliance with operational standards in Sweden and Norway. The project updates the Class 1144 locomotives for use in Scandinavian freight services.
