One of the world's most powerful hybrid electric/diesel sixaxle locomotive came to Switzerland for the first time and can be seen on a test run as 97421 from Sulgen to Romanshorn, entering Erlen, running in diesel mode. This is one of two test locomotives, built by StadlerRail in Valencia/Spain, owned by European Loc Pool AG, Frauenfeld/Switzerland (ELP), and will undergoing test runs in Switzerland for the approval. The 120 ton hybrid locomotive has a power output of 9000 kW (about 12200 HP), a tractive force of 500 kN, a maximum velocity of 120 km/h and can operate on the 4 common electric power systems of Europe (15000 V 16,7 HZ AC, 25000 V 50 Hz AC, 3000 V DC, 1500 V DC) and has two diesel engines, each with an output of 950 kW. This allowes a boost function to support the weaker 3kV catenary power supply. The locomotive should get approval in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Netherlands and Belgium. On the side of the locomotive is a quote by Scottish-American mountaineer John Muir. It reads: “The mountains are calling and I must go”, and a picture of the famous Matterhorn.
