Three High-Performance Re 465 Electric Locomotives Transferred to Makies AG for Freight Operations

Makies AG revives retired Re 465 locomotives for freight expansion

Heros Helvetic Rolling Stock GmbH has sold three Re 465-series electric locomotives to Makies AG. The units were previously operated by BLS AG and were resold as part of a marketing mandate following their decommissioning.

The locomotives will now be deployed in freight transport, specifically for gravel trains, replacing older rolling stock. Plans include operating them in push-pull configurations with up to 16 freight cars. Prior to the sale, rigorous test runs were conducted on challenging sections of track in the canton of Lucerne to verify performance under real-world conditions.

In addition to acquiring the locomotives, Makies has purchased two control cars from BLS AG, which will be modified before entering service. A long-term maintenance agreement has also been finalized to ensure the vehicles' upkeep.

According to company statements, the sale of these three locomotives—along with other units—has secured new roles for all recently decommissioned Re 465-series engines, ensuring their continued use.