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Locomotive-Specs
UCW 8E – photo 1© trainspo.com
Electric locomotive

UCW 8E

Built by UCW

Top speed
75 km/h
47 mph
Power output
704 kW
944 hp
Length
16.12 m
52 ft 11 in
Track gauge
1,067 mm
Cape gauge
Years built
1983–1985
107 units
Axle arrangement
Bo'Bo'

Overview of the UCW 8E

Discover the Spoornet 8E electric locomotive, a robust and reliable workhorse of South African railways. Built by UCW between 1983 and 1985, this iconic locomotive played a significant role in the Spoornet fleet.

With a powerful 704 kW output and impressive tractive effort of 288 kN, the 8E is designed for efficient operation on the 1067 mm gauge network. Its compact dimensions, measuring 16.12 meters in length, 3.04 meters in width, and 4.14 meters in height, allow it to navigate diverse track conditions.

Operating on a 3 kV DC electric system, this Bo'Bo' classification locomotive boasts a top speed of 75 km/h, making it a dependable choice for freight and passenger services across South Africa. Explore the enduring legacy of the Spoornet 8E.

UCW 8E technical specifications

Value
Built byUCW · 1983–1985107 units
Top speed75 km/h47 mph
Power output704 kW944 hp
Tractive effort288 kN64,745 lbf
Electric systems
  • 3 kV DC
Track gauge1,067 mmCape gauge3 ft 6 in
UIC axle arrangementBo'Bo'
Length16.12 m52 ft 11 in
Width3.04 m10 ft 0 in
Height4.14 m13 ft 7 in

Operators of the UCW 8E

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

OperatorClassCountry
SpoornetSpoornet 8ESouth Africa

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