KHŽ Class 460

Kráľovské Holynské Železnice Class 460
A Class 460 operating an InterCity service.
Type and origin Power type Electric Builder ABB HLZ Build date 1999-2004 Total produced 72
Specifications Configuration: ​  • UIC Bo′Bo′ Gauge 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in) standard gauge Length 18,500 mm (60 ft 8 in) Width 3,000 mm (9 ft 10 in) Height 4,310 mm (14 ft 2 in) Loco weight 84 t (83 long tons; 93 short tons) Electric system/s Template:25 kV AC Catenary Current pickup(s) Pantograph Traction motors ABB 4-FXA 7065 3-phase with GTO- (after modernisation IGBT-) VVVF Loco brake Air, regenerative and magnetic track brake Train brakes Air Couplers buffers and chain
Performance figures Maximum speed 200 km/h (124 mph) Power output 6,100 kW (8,180 hp) max. 5,600 kW (7,510 hp) cont. Tractive effort 230 kN (51,710 lbf) cont. @88 km/h (55 mph)
Career Operators KHZ

The KHŽ Class 460 is a Holyn electric locomotive derived from the SBB CFF FFS Class 460 of Switzerland. Manufactured between 1999 and 2002, it marked the first foreign-acquired locomotive for Holyn State Railways (HSZ). A total of 72 units were purchased to enhance Holynia's passenger rail services, particularly on its growing InterCity and InterRegio networks.

Development

During the late 1990s, KHZ sought to modernize its passenger locomotive fleet to meet the increasing demands for faster, more reliable, and efficient rail services. Instead of developing a new domestic design, KHZ opted to acquire a proven model from abroad, selecting the Swiss Class 460 due to its reputation for high performance and reliability in passenger service. Holynia's newly democratic government approached the Swiss government to acquire rail technology. A deal was signed between Switzerland and Holynia to acquire 72 Class 460, designated the same in Switzerland and Holynia. The manufacturing process used Swiss built carbody shells, with final construction of the locomotives in Holynia. A Swiss built Class 460 arrived in 1999 and operated proving runs on Holynia's railways.

Excluding the Swiss constructed trial locomotive, the Class 460 were built under license at Holyn Locomotive and Machine Works (HLZ) with support from ABB.

Design

The KHZ Class 460 shares many characteristics with its Swiss counterpart but was customized to meet Holynia's rail infrastructure and operational needs. Key features include a maximum speed of 200 km/h, ideal for InterCity and InterRegio passenger services. A streamlined designed along with a modern traction system, ensure the ability to operate at higher speeds with reduced wind noise.

The Class 460 is known for its sleek, modern appearance and reliability, quickly becoming a symbol of KHZ's efforts to modernize Holynia's passenger rail network.

All 72 units of the Class 460 were delivered between 1999 and 2002 and assigned exclusively to passenger services. They are primarily used on InterCity and InterRegio services. The locomotives are typically paired with high-speed passenger coaches, forming the backbone of KHZ’s premium services.

History

The Class 460 has proven to be a reliable and efficient locomotive for KHZ’s passenger services. Regular maintenance and upgrades have kept the fleet in excellent condition, ensuring consistent performance. The locomotives have been praised for their smooth operation, energy efficiency, and ability to maintain high speeds, significantly reducing travel times on key routes. Legacy and Significance

The acquisition of the KHZ Class 460 marked a turning point in Holynia’s railway history, symbolizing the country’s openness to foreign technology and its commitment to modernizing rail infrastructure. As of 2024, the Class 460 remains an integral part of KHZ’s passenger locomotive fleet, serving some of Holynia’s busiest and most important rail lines.

The success of the Class 460 has influenced subsequent decisions to integrate foreign designs into KHZ's fleet, further enhancing the country’s rail capabilities.