Softronic has reached an important milestone with the delivery of 481-018 “Ecaterina Teodoroiu” and 481-019 “Hariclea Darclée”, completing a 19-locomotive modernisation programme for CFR Călători.
Their delivery officially concludes the programme to modernise 19 electric locomotives for CFR Călători, completed ahead of schedule. Beyond the successful completion of a major contract, the project highlights Softronic’s ability to deliver complex railway modernisation programmes while meeting demanding technical requirements and strict delivery deadlines.
For us, this achievement reflects more than engineering excellence. It demonstrates the strength of Romanian railway expertise and our commitment to developing reliable, efficient and future-ready solutions for passenger rail transport.
481-018 “Ecaterina Teodoroiu” – honouring courage
The first locomotive delivered bears the name of Ecaterina Teodoroiu, one of Romania’s most admired national heroes.
Remembered for her courage and determination during the First World War, she has become a lasting symbol of resilience and dedication. Naming one of the newly modernised locomotives after her continues the tradition of celebrating personalities whose legacy has shaped Romanian history.
481-019 “Hariclea Darclée” – a tribute to romanian cultural heritage
The second locomotive, 481-019 “Hariclea Darclée”, honours one of the world’s most celebrated opera sopranos.
Hariclea Darclée enjoyed an outstanding international career and helped bring Romanian artistic excellence to the world’s leading opera stages. Her name has become synonymous with talent, elegance and cultural achievement – values that continue to inspire long after her time.
Completing a landmark modernisation programme
The delivery of locomotives 481-018 and 481-019 marks the successful completion of a fleet-wide programme involving 19 electric locomotives.
Each locomotive underwent an extensive modernisation process that introduced new traction equipment, upgraded control systems and advanced technologies designed to improve operational reliability, energy efficiency and passenger service. The programme extends the operational life of the locomotives while ensuring they meet today’s railway performance and safety requirements.
Completing all 19 units ahead of schedule is a significant achievement and reflects Softronic’s extensive experience in delivering large-scale railway modernisation projects.
Built by people, driven by expertise
Projects of this scale are never the result of technology alone.
Behind every locomotive stands a multidisciplinary team of engineers, designers, technicians and railway specialists whose expertise made this programme possible. Their commitment, attention to detail and collaborative approach ensured that each locomotive met the highest standards of quality and performance.
The successful completion of this programme reinforces Softronic’s position as a trusted partner for railway modernisation and demonstrates that Romanian engineering continues to play an important role in shaping the future of European rail transport.
