Sofer E656

Built by Ansaldo, Casaralta, Reggiane, Sofer, TIBB

Top speed

150 km/h

93 mph

Power output

4,200 kW

5,632 hp

Weight

120 t

264,554 lb

Length

18.29 m

60 ft 0 in

Track gauge

1,435 mm

Standard gauge

Years built

1975–1989

459 units

Overview of the Sofer E656

Discover the powerful E656 electric locomotive, affectionately known as the "Caimano," a true workhorse of Italian railways.

This iconic locomotive, built between 1975 and 1989 by manufacturers like Ansaldo, Casaralta, and Reggiane, has been a familiar sight on Italian tracks for decades.

With a top speed of 150 km/h and a robust power output of 4200 kW, the E656 is designed for both freight and passenger services, operating on the standard 1435 mm gauge.

Its distinctive Bo'Bo'Bo' wheel arrangement and substantial weight of 120 tons enable a formidable tractive effort of 249 kN.

The E656 has served major Italian rail operators including Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane (FS), Mercitalia Rail, and Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI).

Explore the engineering and legacy of this remarkable electric locomotive.

Sofer E656 technical specifications

	Value	Imperial / US
Series	Caimano
Built by	Ansaldo, Casaralta, Reggiane, Sofer, TIBB · 1975–1989459 units
Top speed	150 km/h93 mph	93 mph
Power output	4,200 kW5,632 hp	5,632 hp
Tractive effort	249 kN55,977 lbf	55,977 lbf
Electric systems	3 kV DC
Track gauge	1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in	4 ft 8½ in
UIC axle arrangement	Bo'Bo'Bo'
Length	18.29 m60 ft 0 in	60 ft 0 in
Width	3 m9 ft 10 in	9 ft 10 in
Height	3.8 m12 ft 6 in	12 ft 6 in
Weight	120 t264,554 lb	264,554 lb