ASEA electric locomotive (Ferrocarriles Vascongados, early version)

The early ASEA electric locomotives supplied to Ferrocarriles Vascongados (FV), a railway network in the Basque Country of Spain, represent a significant chapter in the history of electrification in the region. These locomotives, produced by the Swedish company Allmänna Svenska Elektriska Aktiebolaget (ASEA), were crucial in modernizing the FV lines.

The initial batches of ASEA locomotives for Ferrocarriles Vascongados were delivered during a period of expansion and electrification of the network. These early versions were built to run on the narrow gauge track prevalent in the Basque Country (typically 1 meter gauge). They were characterized by their robust construction, designed to handle the challenging terrain and demanding operational requirements of the region.

While specific technical specifications varied across different batches and subsequent upgrades, these locomotives were generally equipped with ASEA's advanced electric traction technology of the time, including electric motors and control systems that provided efficient and reliable performance. They often featured a distinctive design, reflecting the aesthetics of the period and ASEA's engineering philosophy.

The arrival of ASEA electric locomotives marked a significant upgrade for Ferrocarriles Vascongados, enabling faster and more frequent services, as well as increased freight capacity. These locomotives played a pivotal role in the economic development of the Basque Country, facilitating the transportation of goods and passengers across the region. Over time, these early versions were often supplemented or replaced by newer locomotives, as Ferrocarriles Vascongados continued to modernize its fleet. However, their contribution to the initial electrification and operation of the network remains an important part of the railway's history.