Reggiane E551

Built by Ansaldo, Breda, CGE, OM, Reggiane, SNOS, TIBB, Vickers Terni

Top speed

50 km/h

31 mph

Power output

2,000 kW

2,682 hp

Weight

75 t

165,347 lb

Length

11.01 m

36 ft 1 in

Track gauge

1,435 mm

Standard gauge

Years built

1921–1925

183 units

Overview of the Reggiane E551

Discover the powerful FS E551, an iconic Italian electric locomotive.

Built between 1921 and 1925 by a consortium of renowned manufacturers including Ansaldo, Breda, and CGE, this workhorse served the Italian State Railways with distinction.

With a top speed of 50 km/h and a robust 2000 kW power output, the E551 was designed for efficiency on the 1435 mm standard gauge.

Its sturdy construction, measuring 11.01 meters in length, 2.85 meters in width, and 3.74 meters in height, with a substantial weight of 75 tonnes, made it a reliable performer.

The locomotive utilized a 3.6 kV AC 16.7 Hz electric system, showcasing the advanced technology of its era.

The E551 classification highlights its electric traction capabilities, making it a significant piece of Italian railway history.

Reggiane E551 technical specifications

	Value	Imperial / US
Built by	Ansaldo, Breda, CGE, OM, Reggiane, SNOS, TIBB, Vickers Terni · 1921–1925183 units
Top speed	50 km/h31 mph	31 mph
Power output	2,000 kW2,682 hp	2,682 hp
Electric systems	3.6 kV AC 16.7 Hz (2000 kW)
Track gauge	1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in	4 ft 8½ in
UIC axle arrangement	E
Length	11.01 m36 ft 1 in	36 ft 1 in
Width	2.85 m9 ft 4 in	9 ft 4 in
Height	3.74 m12 ft 3 in	12 ft 3 in
Weight	75 t165,347 lb	165,347 lb