The Stadler EURODUAL locomotive has been cleared to operate in Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia. That expands the reach of this dual-mode platform across the Balkans. It also opens the way for cross-border freight services on Pan-European Corridor X. The corridor links Central Europe with Southeast Europe and extends toward Turkiye.
Photo: Stadler
Also, the authorizations strengthen Stadler’s position in the European rail freight market. RailwayPro reports that operators continue to look for locomotives for both electrified and non-electrified lines.
Stadler EURODUAL locomotive for mixed networks
“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.
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In addition, the EURODUAL is a six-axle bimodal locomotive. It can run on either electric traction or diesel power. For example, as Stadler notes, this setup allows continuous operation across electrified and non-electrified sections. It does so without changing locomotives. That is especially relevant in the Balkans, where rail infrastructure remains uneven.
In electric mode, the locomotive delivers 6.2 MW of power. Its diesel engine provides 2.8 MW. Meanwhile, the company says that combination allows it to haul heavy freight trains. It also helps maintain continuity on mixed-power routes. At the same time, Stadler says this flexibility is particularly relevant in Southeast Europe. Railway electrification there generally ranges between 40% and 50%.
Efficiency and emissions in Southeast Europe rail freight transport
Separately, Stadler says the EURODUAL can improve efficiency in rail freight transport. The gains come from greater traction capacity. They also come from fewer locomotive changes at borders or on sections with different infrastructure.
Also, the company highlights the locomotive’s Stage V-compliant diesel engine and HVO compatibility. Those features can help reduce local emissions and support more sustainable freight transport.
Still, authorization in Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia extends the EURODUAL’s operational reach. It covers a key corridor for freight flows between Central Europe and the Balkans. For operators in the region, this type of locomotive can offer greater flexibility. Interoperability remains a challenge there. Electrified and non-electrified networks still coexist on the same logistics routes.
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