Definition
The Vossloh G2000 BB is a diesel‑hydraulic main‑line locomotive built by Vossloh Locomotives (now part of Vossloh Locomotive GmbH). It features a B′B′ wheel arrangement, meaning two bogies each equipped with two powered axles.
Overview
The G2000 BB was introduced in the early 2000s as part of Vossloh’s “G2000” series, which was intended to provide a versatile, medium‑power locomotive for freight, regional passenger, and shunting duties. The type has been supplied to a limited number of European railway operators, primarily for secondary‑line and industrial service. Production numbers are modest, with only a few dozen units built before the model was superseded by newer Vossloh designs.
Etymology / Origin
The designation “G2000” reflects Vossloh’s internal naming convention, where “G” denotes a diesel‑hydraulic locomotive (derived from the German word Diesel‑Getriebe – diesel transmission) and “2000” indicates the approximate power output in horsepower. The suffix “BB” follows the UIC classification system, signifying a B′B′ axle arrangement (two bogies, each with two driven axles).
Characteristics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Power plant | Typically equipped with an MTU 12V 4000 series V12 diesel engine delivering around 1 500 kW (≈ 2 000 hp). |
| Transmission | Voith hydraulic transmission, providing smooth torque conversion suitable for mixed‑traffic operations. |
| Wheel arrangement | B′B′ (two bogies, each with two powered axles). |
| Maximum speed | Generally limited to 120 km/h (≈ 75 mph), though specific speed settings may vary per operator. |
| Weight | Approximately 80–85 tonnes, depending on configuration and optional equipment. |
| Braking system | Air brakes with optional dynamic (hydraulic) braking. |
| Operational use | Designed for freight haulage on secondary lines, regional passenger services, and heavy shunting tasks. |
| Operators | Known customers have included rail infrastructure companies and industrial operators in Germany, Sweden, and other European countries. |
Related Topics
- Vossloh Locomotive GmbH – The manufacturer responsible for the G2000 series.
- Diesel‑hydraulic transmission – The hydraulic drivetrain technology employed in the G2000 BB.
- UIC classification B′B′ – The wheel‑arrangement notation used for locomotives with two powered bogies each having two axles.
- Vossloh G1206 – A lighter, lower‑power diesel‑hydraulic locomotive from the same manufacturer.
- Voith Turbo‑Transmission – The type of hydraulic transmission commonly fitted to Vossloh diesel‑hydraulic locomotives.