NS Class 1700
| Company type | Electric locomotive |
|---|---|
| Industry | Railway transportation |
| Predecessor | Class 1600 |
| Founded | 1990 |
| Headquarters | Netherlands |
| Products | Locomotives |
Number of employees | 81 units |
The Class 1700 electric locomotives of Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) comprise a fleet of 81 units, constructed by Alstom during the period from 1990 to 1994, with numbering ranging from 1701 to 1781.
Description
Replacing the earlier Class 1600, which itself was derived from the French Class BB 7200 and delivered between 1981 and 1983, the Class 1700 brought advancements in technology. The Class 1600 had previously succeeded older models such as the Class 1000 and Class 1500, offering enhanced power output and efficiency through modern electronic power regulation.
While the Class 1700 retains many design elements from the 1600/1800 series, it features upgraded electronic systems, an improved safety mechanism (ATB phase 4 compared to phase 3 in the Class 1600), and a distinct braking configuration. These locomotives utilize monomotor bogies and can reach speeds up to 200 km/h, though operational limits generally restrict them to approximately 160 km/h.
A notable operational differentiation exists within the subseries: units numbered 1701-1728 are equipped with an automatic BSI coupler that facilitates mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical connections for push-pull operation with NS DD-AR double-decker coaches, effectively allowing them to function similarly to an EMU. The remainder of the series (1729-1781) has been predominantly adapted for push-pull use with refurbished ICRm coaches, some of which include driver's cabs for remote operation. When not engaged in push-pull duties, these locomotives either serve on standard routes or remain as backup units for maintenance purposes.
Fleet list
In response to declining demand, Dutch Railways decommissioned several Class 1700 locomotives in 2010. Locomotive number 1735 was withdrawn following a major fire incident in Venlo on February 24, 2000; due to prohibitive repair expenses, it was dismantled in 2002. Several locomotives bear names of Dutch municipalities and cities, as outlined below.
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Legend:
- 't': Withdrawn from service, unlikely to be reactivated soon
- †: Dismantled