Bertolotti Unveiled Battery Locomotive at InnoTrans
The company introduced an e² Formula shunting locomotive for use by the Milano metro operator.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Bertolotti showcased its new e² Formula battery shunting locomotive at the InnoTrans 2026 exhibition. The unit is the first of eight vehicles being supplied to the Milano metro operator ATM.
Why it matters
These battery-powered locomotives are designed to modernize shunting and rescue operations for major transit networks. By utilizing lithium titanate oxide technology, operators can improve efficiency and reduce dependence on traditional propulsion methods.
The locomotive features a 1 MW continuous power rating and can move trains weighing up to 2,900 tonnes at speeds of 30 km/h. It utilizes lithium titanate oxide batteries alongside traction components supplied by ABB.
The players
Bertolotti
Bertolotti is an industrial manufacturer specializing in rail-based shunting and rescue locomotives.
ATM
ATM is the primary public transport operator serving the city of Milano.
ABB
ABB is a technology company that provides electrification and automation components for industrial sectors.
EAV
EAV is a transit operator based in Napoli that provides rail and bus services.
RTM
RTM is the municipal transport operator for the city of Marseille.
The details
The locomotive features automated couplers and standard UIC/FS drawgear to ensure compatibility with existing rail infrastructure. In addition to the contract with ATM, Bertolotti is currently building eight locomotives for the Napoli operator EAV and two for the Marseille operator RTM.
Timeline
The supply agreement for the Marseille RTM locomotives was finalized in June 2026.
The contract for EAV locomotives was confirmed in July 2026.
The first ATM locomotive unit was completed in early September 2026.
The InnoTrans 2026 exhibition took place in September 2026.
Roadmap
The introduction of this e² Formula locomotive marks a significant step in the broader industry transition toward electrification of heavy-duty shunting and rescue vehicles. This aligns with a wider trend of rail operators moving away from diesel-dependent fleets to reduce emissions.
The deployment of these locomotives is expected to streamline maintenance and rescue capabilities for metropolitan transit systems. These operational improvements generally lead to higher service reliability for daily commuters in participating cities.
The takeaway
The move to replace traditional diesel shunting units with battery-powered alternatives highlights the growing scalability of high-capacity storage for heavy rail. Transit operators are increasingly prioritizing modular, automated equipment to simplify the management of large urban rail networks.
Further reading
For more information on the industry's shift toward battery power, visit Electric Vehicles.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Railway Gazette International.
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Do you support replacing traditional diesel shunting locomotives with battery-powered units in your transit network?
