Series of locomotives purchased by Companhia Real dos Caminhos de Ferro Portugueses to meet the need to renovate the locomotive fleet and remedy the shortage of traction equipment.
At the time, they were considered to be among the most advanced. Intended for the high-speed trains on the Northern and Eastern lines. Services included the fast trains to Porto, the Sud Express and the Rápido da Galiza train. The journey between Lisbon and Porto taking about 7 hours. In the first decade of the 20 th century, these locomotives were relegated to other routes and less noble services. They were transferred to the Entroncamento Depot and operated there until the end of steam traction, ensuring the passenger service on the Beira Baixa and Eastern Lines and serving as omnibus trains on the Northern Line. The introduction of diesel-powered engines and the start of the electrification of the Northern Line led to the reduction of their circulation.
After 1945, they underwent modifications. The early 70s marked the discontinuation of their traction services, at the same time as steam traction in central Portugal came to an end.
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.