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Locomotive-Specs
BBC Ae 6/6 – photo 1© trainspo.com
Electric locomotive

BBC Ae 6/6

Built by SLM, BBC, MFO

Top speed
125 km/h
78 mph
Power output
4,300 kW
5,766 hp
Weight
120 t
264,554 lb
Length
18.4 m
60 ft 4 in
Track gauge
1,435 mm
Standard gauge
Years built
1955–1966
120 units

Overview of the BBC Ae 6/6

The SBB Ae 6/6 electric locomotive stands as a true icon of Swiss railways, serving the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and SBB Cargo for decades.

Built between 1955 and 1966 by SLM, BBC, and MFO, this robust machine boasts a powerful performance, reaching speeds of up to 125 km/h.

With its impressive 4300 kW power output and a substantial 120-ton weight, the Ae 6/6 is well-suited for both passenger and freight transport, particularly on Switzerland's demanding mountain routes. Its Co'Co' axle arrangement ensures excellent tractive effort, making it a reliable workhorse.

Today, select units are preserved by SBB Historic, continuing the legacy of this legendary locomotive. Explore stunning images of the Ae 6/6 and its significant place in railway history.

BBC Ae 6/6 technical specifications

Value
SeriesAe 6/6
Built bySLM, BBC, MFO · 1955–1966120 units
Top speed125 km/h78 mph
Power output4,300 kW5,766 hp
Tractive effort221 kN49,683 lbf
Electric systems
  • 15 kV AC 16.7 Hz
Track gauge1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in
UIC axle arrangementCo'Co'
Length18.4 m60 ft 4 in
Width2.97 m9 ft 9 in
Height4.5 m14 ft 9 in
Weight120 t264,554 lb

Operators of the BBC Ae 6/6

Railway companies that have operated the Ae 6/6, with the class designation used by each of them.

OperatorClassCountry
SBB CargoSBB Cargo Ae 6/6Switzerland
SBB CargoSBB Cargo Ae 610Switzerland
SBB HistoricSBB Historic Ae 6/6Switzerland
Swiss Federal RailwaysSBB Ae 6/6Switzerland

BBC Ae 6/6 photos

Photos © their respective authors, shared on trainspo.com. They may show liveries or variants that differ from the specifications above.

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