Stadler has obtained authorization to operate EURODUAL locomotives in Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia, thereby expanding the scope of use for this dual-mode model in the Balkan region. The new approvals allow for the operation of cross-border freight services on Pan-European Corridor X, one of the rail axes connecting Central Europe to Southeast Europe and onward to Turkiye.
With these authorizations, the Swiss manufacturer is strengthening its presence in the European rail freight transport market at a time when operators are seeking solutions capable of operating efficiently on both electrified and non-electrified lines.
“EURODUAL is already operating successfully across a wide range of European markets, including Germany, Austria, France, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, and Turkiye. Its proven performance confirms its suitability for demanding freight operations. The new approvals enable additional cross-border freight services and support more efficient rail connections in Southeast Europe,” said Iñigo Parra, CEO of Stadler Valencia.
Locomotive for mixed networks
The EURODUAL is a six-axle bimodal locomotive capable of operating on both electric and diesel power. Stadler says this configuration allows for seamless travel between electrified and non-electrified sections without changing locomotives—a significant advantage in regions such as the Balkans, where rail infrastructure remains heterogeneous.
The model delivers 6.2 MW of power in electric mode and is equipped with a 2.8 MW diesel engine, features that enable it to haul heavy freight trains and maintain operational continuity on mixed-power routes.
According to the company, this flexibility is particularly relevant for Southeast Europe, where the degree of railway electrification generally ranges between 40 and 50%.
Focus on efficiency and lower emissions
Stadler claims that the EURODUAL can also help increase efficiency in rail freight transport through greater traction capacity and by reducing the need to change locomotives at borders or on sections with different infrastructure.
The company also highlights that the locomotive is equipped with a diesel engine compliant with the Stage V standard and is compatible with HVO fuels, features presented as arguments for reducing local emissions and supporting more sustainable freight transport.
Expansion into Southeast Europe
With authorization in Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia, Stadler is expanding the operational range of the EURODUAL locomotive along a key corridor for freight flows between Central Europe and the Balkans.
For rail freight operators, this type of locomotive can offer greater flexibility in a region where interoperability remains a challenge, and electrified and non-electrified networks continue to coexist on the same logistics routes.
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