© trainspo.comBBC ABe 4/4 II
Built by BBC, SAAS, SWS
Overview of the BBC ABe 4/4 II
Discover the ABe 4/4 II railcar, a symbol of Swiss railway engineering and a workhorse for the Rhaetian Railway.
Built between 1964 and 1972 by renowned manufacturers like BBC, SAAS, and SWS, this robust railcar boasts a powerful 680 kW electric system operating on 1 kV DC. Its Bo'Bo' wheel arrangement ensures excellent traction on challenging routes.
With a top speed of 65 km/h, the ABe 4/4 II is perfectly suited for passenger transport, offering comfortable seating for 12 in first class and 24 in second class. Its 1000 mm gauge makes it an integral part of the picturesque Swiss railway network.
This versatile locomotive also saw service as the Xe 4/4 II, highlighting its adaptability. Explore the details of this classic railcar and its significant role in Swiss transportation history.
BBC ABe 4/4 II technical specifications
| Value | Imperial / US | |
|---|---|---|
| Built by | BBC, SAAS, SWS · 1964–19729 units | |
| Top speed | 65 km/h40 mph | |
| Power output | 680 kW912 hp | |
| Electric systems |
| |
| Track gauge | 1,000 mmMetre gauge3 ft 3⅜ in | |
| UIC axle arrangement | Bo'Bo' | |
| Capacity | 1st class 12, 2nd class 24 seats | |
| Width | 2.65 m8 ft 8 in |
Operators of the BBC ABe 4/4 II
Railway companies that have operated the ABe 4/4 II, with the class designation used by each of them.
| Operator | Class | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Rhaetian Railway | RhB ABe 4/4 II | Switzerland |
| Rhaetian Railway | RhB Xe 4/4 II | Switzerland |
BBC ABe 4/4 II photos
Photos © their respective authors, shared on trainspo.com. They may show liveries or variants that differ from the specifications above.















