AS the 200th state-of-the-art Traxx 23E locomotive rolled off the assembly line in Durban today, Transnet celebrated a pivotal milestone in South Africa’s industrial and economic recovery, . The locomotive is part of the 240 units that Transnet has procured as part of its fleet renewal programme.
According to the state-owned logistics company, this achievement demonstrates the engineering excellence and expertise within Transnet, its resilient recovery from major setbacks, as well as its unwavering commitment to driving transformation in the logistics sector, through local manufacturing.
Transnet Group Chief Executive, Michelle Phillips said the Traxx 23E project is the cornerstone of Transnet’s effort to modernise its freight rail fleet. “Modernising our fleet is a critical component of the national mandate to lower the cost of doing business and enable economic growth. Today’s celebration of this milestone is a manifestation of our commitment to modernise our fleet and enhance freight capacity through sustained and focused investment in rolling stock assets,” she said.
Following a 2023 settlement agreement with project partner Alstom (which acquired original contractor Bombardier), Transnet Engineering initiated an aggressive ramp-up. By implementing a 24/5 shift pattern, and stabilising the material supply chain, the project achieved its best-ever performance in 2024, delivering 43 locomotives in a single year and is now firmly on track for completion with the delivery of the remaining 40 locomotives by June 2026, Transnet said.
As Transnet Engineering positions itself to become a leading Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for the continent, the state-owned company said the 200th Traxx 23E locomotive stands as proof of its capability, resilience, and central role in moving South Africa forward.
