Designed to operate reliably in Canada's demanding climate, including temperatures as low as -50°C, the new locomotives combine proven diesel-electric technology with an innovative battery-assisted traction system. The hybrid concept will improve operational performance, reduce fuel consumption and emissions, and deliver a more sustainable travel experience for passengers and communities along VIA Rail's network.
The contract represents a major milestone for Stadler and further strengthens the company's presence in the North American market.
Hybrid technology supporting decarbonization
The locomotives will be equipped with traction battery modules that supply energy for onboard auxiliary systems, head-end power requirements, and traction. By combining battery power with the diesel engine, the vehicles can deliver up to 4 MW of power at the wheel, a starting tractive effort of 350 kN, and a maximum operating speed of 160 km/h (100 mph), ensuring excellent acceleration, high performance on steep gradients, and reliable operation across VIA Rail’s long-distance network including routes serving remote communities throughout the country.
The hybrid architecture enables the recovery and storage of braking energy in the batteries, significantly improving overall energy efficiency while reducing fuel consumption and maintenance requirements. By combining battery-assisted traction with optimized diesel engine operation, the locomotives help lower greenhouse gas emissions and support VIA Rail's decarbonization objectives, while delivering enhanced operational performance and reduced lifecycle costs.
At stations and other environmentally sensitive areas, the locomotives can operate in battery mode, significantly reducing noise and exhaust emissions. In addition to supporting peak power demands, the battery system enhances operational resilience by enabling the locomotive to continue operating and reach a safe location in the unlikely event of a diesel powertrain failure.
The new fleet has been designed with sustainability in mind, featuring recyclability rates above 92% and recoverability rates exceeding 95%. The battery system is also designed for long service life and second-life applications, further supporting VIA Rail's decarbonization ambitions
Built for Canada's demanding conditions
The new locomotives are being developed for dependable operation across Canada's vast geography and demanding climate. Their design builds on Stadler's proven technologies, successfully deployed for more than a decade in countries such as Sweden and Norway, where they have demonstrated reliable performance in harsh winter conditions.
The locomotives will connect major urban centers and remote communities, supporting VIA Rail's mission to provide accessible, reliable and environmentally sustainable transportation nationwide.
Iñigo Parra, Executive Vice-President Division Spain, said: "Our hybrid locomotive platform combines performance, reliability and sustainability. By integrating battery-assisted operation into a powerful long-distance locomotive, we are providing VIA Rail with a future-oriented solution that supports its environmental objectives while enhancing operational flexibility and passenger service."
The project
Stadler Valencia, the Group's center of competence for locomotives, will be responsible for the design, manufacture and delivery of the new fleet. Located near Valencia (Spain), the Albuixech facility is one of Europe's leading railway technology sites, home to more than 500 engineers dedicated to vehicle design and development. While Stadler will retain full project responsibility, part of the locomotive assembly, as well as testing and commissioning activities, will be carried out in Canada.
In addition to supplying the 45 locomotives, Stadler and VIA Rail have signed a 20-year “TSSSA” contract to ensure the long-term reliability, availability and cost-effective operation of the fleet. These services will be delivered by Stadler's Service Division, the Group’s center of competence for maintenance services, through a Canadian subsidiary to be incorporated, with personnel based at VIA Rail's main maintenance facilities in Montreal, Toronto, Winnipeg and Vancouver. The project will contribute to the development of Canada's railway industry by creating skilled jobs in manufacturing, testing and maintenance, while supporting the transfer of expertise and advanced railway technologies
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