Expert SNCB 2802 Electric Locomotive IV (~AC-Sound)

Expert SNCB 2802 Electric Locomotive IV (~AC-Sound)

1:87 scale model produced by Piko. This model is ready-to-run straight out of the box and would make a excellent addition to any model railway collection.

Features:

• AC Sound Model
• Best suited to Epoch IV Model Railways
• This model mainly operates in Belgium
• This model is decorated in SNCB company markings
• This model is best suited to 358mm radius curves

Details

The Belgian Railways Class 20 is a distinctive six-axle electric locomotive that served the SNCB/NMBS across Belgium from the mid-1970s until 2013. Built between 1975 and 1978 by BN and ACEC, a total of 25 locomotives were delivered and numbered 2001–2025. Designed as a Co'Co' machine under 3 kV DC overhead electrification, the Class 20 was unusually powerful for its era and became known as the “Queen of the Rails” in Belgian service.

Originally intended to be a four-system, multi-voltage design, the plan was simplified to DC operation before production began. Each locomotive delivered around 5,150 kW and could reach a top speed of 160 km/h, making the Class 20 fast enough for both express passenger trains and heavy freight work. They were a common sight on high-speed Brussels–Luxembourg services and later shared duties with CFL Class 3000s.

Early service was marked by mechanical teething problems, particularly with transmission and control systems, but these were resolved over time, and Class 20 locomotives proved reliable when driven with care. Their powerful Co'Co' layout also gave excellent performance on steep gradients.

The final regular revenue service run was on 31 December 2013, and most were withdrawn soon after. Several have been preserved, including units kept by SNCB and preservation groups.