Now Reading: RITES develops standard-gauge locomotives for global export market
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RITES develops standard-gauge locomotives for global export market
RITES develops standard-gauge locomotives for global export market
RITES is developing a standard-gauge version of an Indian Railways diesel locomotive for an Australian customer, with a prototype expected shortly for testing. The project could open markets across Australia, Europe, the…
The Story in Brief
RITES is developing a standard-gauge version of an Indian Railways diesel locomotive for an Australian customer, with a prototype expected shortly for testing. The project could open markets across Australia, Europe, the Americas and parts of Africa, Mint reports.
Indian Railways uses 1,676-mm broad gauge, while most overseas networks use 1,435-mm standard gauge. RITES plans to redesign the running gear while retaining the locomotive’s powertrain and other key systems. The company has already developed Cape gauge versions for South African buyers. RITES says many of India’s 5,000 diesel locomotives could have another 10 to 15 years of service, while refurbished units cost about two-thirds as much as new ones.
The Indian Opinion
The easy story is that electrification makes India’s diesel fleet worthless, or that refurbished engines will automatically find buyers worldwide. Both claims go too far. Demand will depend on customer testing, safety approvals, freight economics and the condition of each locomotive. RITES has a useful first test in Australia, followed by the delivery and performance of its Cape gauge units in South Africa. Will the standard-gauge prototype pass validation and secure repeat orders?
Source: livemint.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
