Our Trains

A number of different locomotives will take you on your KiwiRail journey. The type of locomotive will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the train and locomotive availability.  The Overlander also makes use of the REF locomotives on the electrified section of the North Island Main Trunk line between Hamilton and Palmerston North.

DC Locomotive

Diesel electric mainline passenger and freight locomotive.

Number in service: 71

Engine type: EMD 12/645E

Power output: 1500HP traction/1650HP gross

Gear ratio: 63:14

Driving wheel diameter: 1022 mm

Max tractive effort: 145kN

Maximum speed: 100kph

Weight in service: 82 tonnes

 

DFT Locomotive

Diesel electric mainline passenger and freight locomotive.

Number in service: 30

Engine type: GM 12 – 645E3C

Power output: 2250HP traction/2540HP gross

Gear ratio: 57:16

Driving wheel diameter: 940 mm

Max tractive effort: 270kN

Maximum speed: 113kph

Weight in service: 87.6 tonnes

 

DX Locomotive

Diesel electric mainline passenger and freight locomotive

Number in service: 46

Engine type: GE 7FDL12

Power output: 3150HP traction/3300HP gross

Gear ratio: 93:18

Driving wheel diameter: 940 mm

Max tractive effort: 370kN

Maximum speed: 106kph

Weight in service: 99.9 tonnes

 

EF Locomotive

Mainline electric  locomotive

Number in service: 17

Power output: 3MW

Gear ratio: 74:17

Driving wheel diameter: 1100 -1000 mm

Max tractive effort: 300kN

Maximum speed: 110kph

Weight in service: 108 tonnes