Akiem/MAV 490 010 Electric Locomotive VI

Akiem/MAV 490 010 Electric Locomotive VI

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

Features:

• Analogue DC Model
• Best suited to Epoch VI Model Railways
• Decorated in Akeim company markings
• Best suited to 356mm radius curves
• Flywheel Fitted
• Close Coupler

Details

The SNCF Class BB 36000, nicknamed “Astride” (short for Asynchronous Tricourant Drive Engine), is a class of four-axle electric locomotives built by GEC-Alsthom/Alstom for the French National Railways (SNCF) between 1996 and 2001. A total of 60 locomotives were produced to meet the growing need for powerful, high-performance traction on freight and mixed traffic services across France and into neighbouring networks.

The BB 36000 was designed as a triple-voltage locomotive, capable of operating under 25 kV AC, 1.5 kV DC and 3 kV DC overhead systems, making it ideal for cross-border routes into Belgium and Italy without needing locomotive changes. It features a Bo'Bo' wheel arrangement, four asynchronous traction motors and a continuous power output of around 5,600 kW, with a top speed of about 200 km/h.

Thirty of the units were later converted to BB 36200/36300 sub-classes with additional safety and multiple-unit equipment for international freight and passenger duties, and locomotives working in Italy are classed as FS Class E436. The BB 36000s have been widely used on heavy freight corridors, especially between France, Belgium and Italy, making them key examples of modern European electric traction.