ChS8

The ChS8 (Russian: ЧС8) is an electric mainline AC passenger locomotive used in Russia and Ukraine.

ChS8[1]
Electric locomotive ChS8-075
Type and origin Power type Electric Builder Škoda Works Build date 1983–89 Total produced 82
Specifications Gauge 1,524 mm (5 ft) 1,520 mm (4 ft 11 27⁄32 in) Russian gauge Length 33,740 mm (110 ft 8 in) Width 3,000 mm (9 ft 10 in) Electric system/s 25 kV 50 Hz AC Catenary Current pickup(s) Pantograph Train heating 1,500 kW
Performance figures Maximum speed 180 km/h (110 mph) Power output 7,200 kW
Career Operators РЖД (RZhD), УЗ (UZ) Locale Russia Soviet Union Ukraine

The 8 axle locomotive was developed for pulling long passenger trains (28–32 carriages) at speeds around of 100 km/h or faster. In 1983 the first two experimental locomotives were constructed and delivered to Kiev for tests and adjustment. In 1987 30 locomotives were built as a mass model. In 1989 last 50 locomotives were built.

As the most powerful AC passenger locomotive in USSR designed for long trains, ChS8 experienced a low demand when after the disintegration of USSR passenger turnover in both Russia and Ukraine fell significantly. After 2010 Russian railways turned to more energy-effective EP10 and EP20 as powerful locomotives for fast or long passenger trains.