NEXRAIL’s EURO9000: Zero-Emission Rail in Europe

Introduction

NEXRAIL has placed an order with Stadler for up to 200 EURO9000 battery-electric locomotives, with initial deliveries scheduled for 2029. Hamburger Rail Service will be the first customer for the new locomotives. The announcement was made on November 13, 2025.

Contract Details

NEXRAIL, a Luxembourg-based locomotive leasing firm, finalized an agreement with Stadler for the delivery of up to 200 EURO9000 panto-battery hybrid locomotives. The contract aims to enhance the deployment of zero-emission rail freight operations across key mainline corridors in Europe.

EURO9000 Specifications

The EURO9000 model integrates up to 9MW of pantograph power with a 1.2MW battery capacity. This configuration allows for terminal-to-terminal operation without emissions. Stadler will manufacture the locomotives based on its six-axle Co’Co’ platform at its Valencia site. The locomotives are designed to support multiple electrification systems, including 25 kV AC, 15 kV AC, 3 kV DC, and 1.5 kV DC.

Battery Technology and Features

A key element of this order is the EURO9000’s smart battery management system. This system enables the locomotive to store energy from regenerative braking, manage network peak consumption charges, and participate in energy trading by optimizing purchase and recuperation activities. The battery module has a capacity of 636 kilowatt-hours (kWh) using lithium-titanate oxide (LTO) batteries. On weaker DC networks, the battery is designed to provide additional power for increased load capacity and improved scheduling.

Operational Capabilities and Cross-Border Services

The EURO9000 has a track gauge of 1,435mm, a maximum speed of 120km/h, a starting tractive effort of 500kN, and a continuous tractive effort of 430kN. The manufacturer states that the locomotive’s traction capabilities will enable single-traction operation over challenging terrains, such as trans-alpine corridors, without requiring supplementary locomotives. The units are designed with multi-system capabilities to facilitate cross-border freight services across Germany, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Italy.

Conclusion

NEXRAIL has ordered up to 200 Stadler EURO9000 locomotives to expand zero-emission rail freight operations in Europe. The EURO9000 model combines pantograph and battery power, offering various operational benefits. The locomotives will be manufactured at Stadler’s Valencia site and are designed to support cross-border freight services.

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Company Summary

NEXRAIL: A Luxembourg-based locomotive leasing firm.

Stadler: Manufacturer of the EURO9000 locomotives.

Hamburger Rail Service: The first customer for the Stadler EURO9000 locomotives.

Technology

EURO9000: Stadler’s panto-battery hybrid locomotive model.

LTO: Lithium-titanate oxide batteries.