Expert SBB Ee 3/3 II Electric Locomotive II (~AC-Sound)

Expert SBB Ee 3/3 II Electric Locomotive II (~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 II Model Railways
• This model mainly operates in Switzerland
• This model is decorated in SBB company markings
• This model is best suited to 358mm radius curves

Details

The SBB Ee 3/3 IV is a specialised heavy electric shunting locomotive built for the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) to handle demanding yard duties within electrified depots and freight terminals. Introduced in the 1960s during a period of rapid electrification across Switzerland, the Ee 3/3 IV was designed where robust tractive effort and electrically powered shunting were priorities. A total of 28 locomotives were constructed, reflecting SBB’s commitment to replacing steam and early diesel shunters with modern electric power.

With a Co'Co' wheel arrangement, the Ee 3/3 IV delivered significant traction for its compact size, allowing it to move heavy wagons on complex trackwork and steep gradients often found in Swiss rail facilities. The locomotive’s electrical system was optimised for 15 kV AC overhead operation, making it entirely integrated with Switzerland’s mainline electrification rather than dependent on auxiliary power.

Over decades of service, the Ee 3/3 IV became a familiar sight in major Swiss hubs, prized for its quiet operation, strong low-speed control and ability to handle intensive shunting cycles. Some units remained in service well into the 1990s and beyond, even as newer shunting technology emerged.