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Locomotive-Specs
SLM BLS 8/8 – photo 1© trainspo.com
Electric locomotive

SLM BLS 8/8

Built by SLM, BBC

Top speed
125 km/h
78 mph
Power output
6,475 kW
8,683 hp
Weight
160 t
352,739 lb
Length
30.23 m
99 ft 2 in
Track gauge
1,435 mm
Standard gauge
Years built
1959–1966
5 units

Overview of the SLM BLS 8/8

Explore the powerful BLS Ae 8/8, an iconic electric locomotive that served the Swiss railway network.

Built by SLM and BBC between 1959 and 1966, this impressive machine boasts a formidable 6475 kW power output and a top speed of 125 km/h, making it a true workhorse for heavy freight and passenger duties.

With its distinctive Bo'Bo'+Bo'Bo' wheel arrangement and a substantial weight of 160 tons, the BLS Ae 8/8 is a testament to robust Swiss engineering.

Its 1435 mm standard gauge and operation on 15 kV AC 16.7 Hz electric systems highlight its integration into the Swiss railway infrastructure.

Discover more about this classic locomotive and its contributions to rail transport in Switzerland.

SLM BLS 8/8 technical specifications

Value
Built bySLM, BBC · 1959–19665 units
Top speed125 km/h78 mph
Power output6,475 kW8,683 hp
Electric systems
  • 15 kV AC 16.7 Hz
Track gauge1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in
UIC axle arrangementBo'Bo'+Bo'Bo'
Length30.23 m99 ft 2 in
Weight160 t352,739 lb

Operators of the SLM BLS 8/8

Railway companies that have operated the BLS 8/8, with the class designation used by each of them.

OperatorClassCountry
BLS AGBLS Ae 8/8Switzerland

SLM BLS 8/8 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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