© trainspo.comBBC ABDe 8/8
Built by BBC, SAAS, SIG
Overview of the BBC ABDe 8/8
Discover the ABDe 8/8 electric multiple unit, a classic of narrow-gauge railways.
Built in 1968 by BBC, SAAS, and SIG, this robust locomotive boasts 880 kW of power and a top speed of 70 km/h, making it a reliable workhorse.
With seating for 18 in first class and 68 in second class, it comfortably accommodates up to 86 passengers.
Its Bo'Bo'+Bo'Bo' axle configuration and a service weight of 60 tons highlight its sturdy construction and operational efficiency.
The impressive tractive effort of 185 kN ensures its capability on demanding routes.
Operated by the Montreux-Oberland Bernois (MOB) and Oensingen-Balsthal-Bahn (OeBB) in Switzerland, the ABDe 8/8 has proven its enduring value.
Its 33.5-meter car length and 1000 mm gauge are perfectly suited for the narrow-gauge network.
Experience the charm and performance of this powerful and comfortable electric locomotive.
BBC ABDe 8/8 technical specifications
| Value | Imperial / US | |
|---|---|---|
| Series | ABDe 8/8 | |
| Built by | BBC, SAAS, SIG · 19684 units | |
| Top speed | 70 km/h43 mph | |
| Power output | 880 kW1,180 hp | |
| Tractive effort | 185 kN41,590 lbf | |
| Track gauge | 1,000 mmMetre gauge3 ft 3⅜ in | |
| UIC axle arrangement | Bo'Bo'+Bo'Bo' | |
| Capacity | 1st class 18, 2nd class 68 seats | |
| Car length | 33.5 m109 ft 11 in | |
| Weight | 60 t132,277 lb |
Operators of the BBC ABDe 8/8
Railway companies that have operated the ABDe 8/8, with the class designation used by each of them.
| Operator | Class | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Chemins de fer Montreux-Oberland Bernois | MOB ABDe 8/8 | Switzerland |
| Oensingen-Balsthal-Bahn | OeBB ABDe 4/8 | Switzerland |
BBC ABDe 8/8 photos
Photos © their respective authors, shared on trainspo.com. They may show liveries or variants that differ from the specifications above.
More electric multiple units from BBC

BBC
BOB ABDeh 4/4
Electric multiple unit
70 km/h · 632 kW

BBC
ABeh 4/4 I
Electric multiple unit
1965 · 70 km/h

BBC
CEV BDeh 2/4
Electric multiple unit
1970

BBC
Hochleistungstriebwagen
Electric multiple unit
1966–1967

BBC
BDeh 4/4
Electric multiple unit
1964–1980 · 75 km/h

BBC
WSB Be 4/4.9
Electric multiple unit
1965–1966 · 80 km/h

BBC
CJ BDe 4/4 II
Electric multiple unit
90 km/h · 724 kW

BBC
SAD BDe 4/8
Electric multiple unit
65 km/h · 400 kW
Similar electric multiple units from other manufacturers

Siemens
Bursaray B80
Electric multiple unit
70 km/h

Stadler
BZB 12-16
Electric multiple unit
70 km/h

ACMV
BAM Be 4/4
Electric multiple unit
75 km/h · 780 kW

SWP
FLP ABe 4/6 - SSIF ABe 6/6
Electric multiple unit
1968 · 60 km/h

MFO
BDe 8/8
Electric multiple unit
1969 · 70 km/h

FFA
AB BDe 4/4.46-47
Electric multiple unit
1968 · 65 km/h

ABB
IM LRV
Electric multiple unit
80 km/h

Alstom
MP 89 CA
Electric multiple unit
80 km/h