FS Logistix is expanding its locomotive fleet with six EffiShunter 1000 units built by Czech manufacturer CZ Loko, purchased through Mercitalia Shunting & Terminal. The locomotives will be used for freight services and shunting operations, including on non-electrified lines. The purchase forms part of the company's strategic plan and marks the fourth acquisition of this locomotive type by FS Logistix companies in ten years. The EffiShunter 1000 has a power output of 895 kW and a maximum tractive effort of 267 kN. It is designed for a range of operations, including shunting at terminals and ports, rescue duties on the railway network, short-distance freight transfers and hauling heavy freight trains in double-heading configuration. The locomotives are authorised to operate on the national railway network managed by RFI and on the main regional networks. More than 100 units of the model have been sold and are currently operating in eight European countries.
Livio Ravera, chief executive officer and general manager of Mercitalia Shunting & Terminal, expects the six locomotives to improve service quality, with benefits in terms of fuel consumption and emissions. FS Logistix chief executive officer Sabrina De Filippis linked the order to the progressive renewal of the fleet and identified economies of scale in rolling stock management as one of the company's objectives. The partnership with CZ Loko dates back to 2017, when Mercitalia Shunting & Terminal purchased its first five Class 744.1 locomotives. Delivered in 2018, these are now used for shunting operations in Ravenna, Padua and Milano Smistamento. Another five Class 744.1 locomotives entered service in 2021 in Mercitalia Rail colours and operate in Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy and Piedmont. In 2022, Mercitalia Shunting & Terminal purchased a further two units, also used for shunting by Terminali Italia. Maintenance of the CZ Loko locomotives operated by FS Logistix companies is carried out by CZ Loko Italia.
