Casaralta E444

Built by Fiat, Casaralta, Sofer, TIBB, Reggiane

Top speed

200 km/h

124 mph

Power output

4,272 kW

5,729 hp

Weight

83 t

182,983 lb

Length

16.84 m

55 ft 3 in

Track gauge

1,435 mm

Standard gauge

Years built

1965–1975

117 units

Overview of the Casaralta E444

Discover the E444 electric locomotive, an icon of Italian State Railways (FS) and a testament to engineering excellence. Constructed between 1965 and 1975 by a consortium of renowned manufacturers including Fiat, Casaralta, Sofer, TIBB, and Reggiane, this powerful machine represented a significant leap in Italian rail transport modernization.

Featuring an impressive top speed of 200 km/h, the E444 was engineered for high performance in both passenger and freight services. Its robust Bo'Bo' axle configuration ensures excellent stability and traction, making it a reliable workhorse on the Italian network.

Powered by dual-frequency electric systems (1.5 kV DC and 3 kV DC), this locomotive delivers a substantial 4272 kW of power, providing a tractive effort of 201 kN. With a length of 16.84 meters and weighing 83 tons, the FS E444 commands a significant presence.

Affectionately known as the "Tartaruga" (tortoise) for its sturdy build, the E444 played a crucial role in modernizing Italy's rolling stock and significantly contributed to the development of high-speed rail transport in the country.

Casaralta E444 technical specifications

	Value	Imperial / US
Series	E444
Built by	Fiat, Casaralta, Sofer, TIBB, Reggiane · 1965–1975117 units
Top speed	200 km/h124 mph	124 mph
Power output	4,272 kW5,729 hp	5,729 hp
Tractive effort	201 kN45,187 lbf	45,187 lbf
Electric systems	1.5 kV DC 3 kV DC
Track gauge	1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in	4 ft 8½ in
UIC axle arrangement	Bo'Bo'
Length	16.84 m55 ft 3 in	55 ft 3 in
Width	3.02 m9 ft 11 in	9 ft 11 in
Height	4.3 m14 ft 1 in	14 ft 1 in
Weight	83 t182,983 lb	182,983 lb