SNOS 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 SNOS E551

Discover the E551 electric locomotive, an icon of the Italian State Railways (FS).

Built between 1921 and 1925 by prestigious Italian manufacturers like Ansaldo and Breda, this locomotive represents a significant piece of railway history.

The E551 boasts an impressive power output of 2000 kW and could reach a top speed of 50 km/h. Its robust construction is evident in its weight of 75 tons and substantial dimensions, measuring 11.01 meters in length.

Designed for the 1435 mm standard gauge, the E551 electric locomotive operated on a 3.6 kV AC 16.7 Hz system, ensuring reliability and performance for the demands of its era. A true engineering marvel from the early post-war period.

SNOS 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