The first KZ4AT four-axle passenger locomotive of Kazakhstan national railway KTZ has started commercial operations along the country’s Astana-Kokshetau line.
Developed by French multinational Alstom and Russian locomotive manufacturer Transmashholding (TMH), the one-section alternative current locomotive was delivered by EKZ, which is a joint venture between Alstom, TMH and KTZ.
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According to Alstom, two other locomotives that are currently being tested in Kazakhstan are likely to be delivered later this year.
The KZ4AT has been designed to meet the requirements of the Kazakh and CIS markets, and is capable of operating even in extreme climatic conditions, which could range from -50°C to more than 45°C. The locomotive can reach a maximum speed of up to 200km/h.
The modular design of the locomotive is based on Alstom’s technology and it features a rounded front with a re-interpreted PrimaII head light design.
According to Alstom, the KZ4AT is expected to provide high levels of reliability and will require low-maintenance and lifecycle costs.
The KZ4AT was produced at EKZ’s new locomotive facility in Kazakhstan, and the company is scheduled to supply 200 units of KZ8A freight locomotives and 95 units of KZ4AT passenger electric locomotives to KTZ by 2020.
Around 25 units of KZ8A locomotives have so far been delivered to customers.
Image: KZ4AT passenger locomotive. Photo: courtesy of Alstom.
