Train IR 96 Zurich - Basel - Brussels

[LouJ]

Am thinking of riding this named train "Iris" and wonder what the motive power is on various sections of its journey.

Zurich to Basel currently appears to be SBB Re4/4 II + 6 coaches (5 x SBB + 1 x SNCB)

Does anyone know what the motive power is after leaving Basel? It continues via Mulhouse, Colmar, Strasbourg, Metz, and Luxembourg to Brussels.

 

[Nigel Gresley]

I would guess that it is still hauled from Basle to Brussels by a Sybic (BB 26000). Seen here in Strasbourg in June 2008.

 

[33056]

It is usually an SNCB/NMBS class 20 from Luxembourg.

 

[Nigel Gresley]

Yes, I'm a bit daft thinking that a Sybic could progress north or Luxembourg.

The BB15000 could also be used on the 96 or 97. The train still has the number but it's no longer an EC. Does it still have the name Iris ?

 

[LouJ]

Yes it's still called the 'Iris' - it's train number is now quoted as IR 96/97 not EC

 

[Gordon]

Interestingly a very similar request cam up on the international section of another UK based forum recently.

The regular SNCF Traction Basel – Luxembourg is currently BB15000 not Sybic but a Sybic could still be used if necessary.

The train is no longer called ‘Iris’ in France as SNCF no longer uses train names. The Swiss shown the name in their printed timetables, and the name appears on the traditional coach side destination boards (now rarity) used on the EC-type stock, the name is visible throughout the train’s route in France!

The survival of these trains in France is anachronistic. In their timetables ‘fiches’ Alsace region classify the train ‘GL’ (train Grand Ligne) and Lorraine region ‘Corail’. Both of these are officially out of date SNCF terms!

Just for a chuckle, theoretically the Sybic could run on reduced power through Belgium (1500dc under 3000 dc wires). In any case the train reverses in Luxembourg Ville, facilitating a loco swap.