China Railways HXD2B
| Company type | Electric locomotive |
|---|---|
| Industry | Railway transport |
| Founded | 2006 |
| Headquarters | China |
| Products | Electric locomotives |
The HXD2B is a heavy-duty electric locomotive with six axles arranged in a Co′Co′ configuration, specifically engineered for mainline freight operations. Its design incorporates a single-frame structure with dual driver cabs and maintains the Co′Co′ wheel setup. While the chassis, traction motors, power electronics, and cab amenities are largely similar to those found on the HXD2, the bogies differ by utilizing a straight welded steel frame rather than the HXD2's characteristic 'mouth'-shaped frame.
In 2006, an order valued at €1.2 billion was placed for 500 locomotives, with production responsibilities divided between Alstom (25%) and Datong (75%). Originally, Alstom planned to manufacture 100 units; however, this figure was scaled back in 2007 to just 10 units, with the remaining locomotives assembled domestically in China from supplied kits. The first unit produced entirely in China was completed by December 2009, and the delivery schedule aimed for completion by 2012. This project exemplifies a notable international collaboration coupled with substantial investment in China's heavy freight locomotive industry.
See also
- China Railways 8K, twin-unit locomotives manufactured by Alstom for China during the 1980s. see also 8K locomotive (Chinese language)
- List of locomotives in China