Europhoenix - Reconditioned Second-Hand Electric Locomotives

Europhoenix is a supplier of customised low-cost electric traction locomotives aimed primarily at open-access and new-start-up operators in Europe and the UK.

Utilising reconditioned 25kV electric locomotives displaced from service in the UK, Europhoenix offers customisation and modification to customers' needs, from basic alterations such as gauge pressure indications, to regearing, fitting of multiple pantographs, and so on.

Reconditioned express passenger and freight locomotives

The Class 86 locomotive, which forms the basis of the Europhoenix concept, is a proven, reliable workhorse, capable of express passenger operations (up to 161km/h) and freight haulage (re-gearing options available). At 85t and with a Bo-Bo wheel arrangement, the type has an unmodified maximum power output of 4,550kW and maximum tractive effort of 227kN.

Europhoenix has up to 20 locomotives of this class initially available in a first batch. Locomotive delivery to customers usually takes place within six months of the order, with further locomotives delivered on a rolling basis.

The Class 86 locomotives were originally built in 1965/66 but were comprehensively rebuilt in the 1970s with new bogies and wheelsets. Numerous upgrades since then saw the locos remain in frontline service on the UK mainline until the early 2000s.

Component refurbishment, bodywork repair / repainting and 25kV power testing

Europhoenix is spearheaded by the team behind the overhaul and export to Bulgaria of Class 87 locomotives, 25 of which are being reconditioned and returned to working order for the Bulgarian Railway Company.

Using the same process, Europhoenix locomotives are given comprehensive examinations equivalent to the British E-exam as a minimum, with replacement or refurbished components installed as necessary; full bodywork repairs and repainting to client specifications; and full power testing on 25kV before handover.

Electric locomotive spare parts

Europhoenix also offers a comprehensive spare parts service, as well as UK or European training and after sales support. Modification options include regearing, replacement wheelsets, modifications to buffing gear, cab layouts and gauge replacement, pantograph replacement, additional brake pipes, snowploughs, headlight alterations and so on.

Drivers' cabs refitting, headlight rearrangement and removal of UK train-supply systems

An initial pair of Europhoenix locomotives was ordered by Hungarian open access operator Floyd, the first of which was shipped from the UK in February 2009. The second locomotive is due for release in April 2009.

Modifications have included re-designing the cab-front headlight arrangement, removing the UK train-supply system, and refitting the drivers' cabs. The locomotives' bodywork has been stripped down and repainted into Floyd's black, grey and pink livery.

Fitting of up-to-date UK locomotive safety systems

In addition, two locomotives are being prepared for further use in the UK with traction supplier ETL from May 2009. These are being fitted with up-to-date UK safety systems such as OTMR, and will be painted in ETL's red and grey livery prior to a return to traffic.

Further interest in the concept has been forthcoming from Hungary and Bulgaria.

Start-up or small-operator locomotive fleets

With up to 20 locomotives available in the initial batch, the Europhoenix concept is ideal for a new start-up or small-operator locomotive fleet, for a fraction of the cost of new-build 25kV locomotives.

Locomotive overhaul and power-testing facilities

Work to recondition the Europhoenix locomotives takes place at ETS's Long Marston workshops in Warwickshire. On completion of the work, each locomotive transfers to a 25kV test facility where full power testing is undertaken.