Alstom Traxx ETCS Approval: Austria, Czech Rail Impact

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Introduction

On September 8, 2025, the European Railway Agency (ERA) approved Alstom’s onboard European Train Control System (ETCS) for its Traxx Universal locomotives, enabling operations in Austria and benefiting Czech freight operators such as RegioJet and CD Cargo.

Approval for ETCS

The European Railway Agency (ERA) has granted type approval for the Traxx Universal locomotive equipped with the EbiCab 2000 European Train Control System (ETCS). This approval allows for cross-border freight operations in Europe under ETCS Baseline 3.

Impact on Operations

The approval specifically facilitates operations in Austria, where ETCS-only operations are permitted on dual-equipped Class B lines. Czech freight operators, including RegioJet and CD Cargo, are set to benefit from this approval, as they operate a fleet of 388 series locomotives.

Software and Fleet Details

RegioJet has received 13 Traxx locomotives (388 219-231) equipped with software version VR01.5, with the first six already in operation on the Czech rail network since November 2024, following a test operation permit from the Czech State Railways. The remaining seven locomotives have now received international approval and are entering service beyond the Czech Republic.

The Traxx Class 388 fleet operated by CD Cargo and RegioJet, currently using the VR01.2 software version, will undergo a gradual upgrade to the VR01.5 version. Additionally, the 386 series vehicles operated by Metrans will be fitted with Onvia Cab (formerly Atlas) onboard units.

Industry Implications

Alstom Czech Republic and Slovakia managing director Dan Kurucz said: “Cross-border traffic is very important for freight transport in Europe. “With the fully approved version VR01.5, our customers can continue to operate locomotives on corridors in Germany, Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Luxembourg, Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia and Serbia.”

The Traxx Universal locomotives are designed with a modular platform that supports various applications, including freight and passenger transport across multiple countries. They are available in different configurations, including AC, DC, and multi-system options. A key feature of this locomotive is the ‘Last Mile’ functionality, which allows for operations on non-electrified lines, facilitating access to ports and industrial areas. The Traxx locomotives have been approved in 20 countries, collectively covering more than 300 million km annually, with more than 3,000 units sold since the beginning of the 21st century. Recently, Alstom won a contract from Larsen & Toubro to provide 234 Metropolis metro cars, a Communications-Based Train Control signalling system, and maintenance services for Mumbai Metro Line 4 in India.

Conclusion

The ERA approval for Alstom’s ETCS-equipped Traxx Universal locomotives enables cross-border freight operations in Europe, particularly in Austria, and benefits Czech freight operators such as RegioJet and CD Cargo. The locomotives feature the latest ETCS Baseline 3 and software version VR01.5, designed for various applications, including the ‘Last Mile’ functionality.

Company Summary

Alstom: A global company that provides transportation solutions, including rolling stock, signaling, and infrastructure.

RegioJet: A Czech private rail operator.

CD Cargo: A Czech freight operator.

Metrans: A transport company.

Larsen & Toubro: An Indian multinational conglomerate.

Technology

ETCS (European Train Control System): A railway signaling system designed to enhance safety and interoperability across rail networks.

EbiCab 2000: A type of ETCS onboard unit.

VR01.5: The latest software version for the Traxx locomotive.

Onvia Cab (formerly Atlas): An onboard unit.

Communications-Based Train Control: A train signalling system.

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