In 2020, Siemens announced the delivery of 15 Smartron locomotives to Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ). OnTrack was commissioned to develop four exterior design proposals for these factory-blue locomotives.
A public poll garnered nearly 10,000 votes, selecting the 'Green Force' design.
Inaugural train with 80 035 'Khan Asparuh' at Sofia Central station in December 2020 © Krassen Panev
About the design
European railway operators increasingly emphasize both the economic and environmental benefits of rail transport over road and air alternatives. The green color scheme symbolizes modernity and a new chapter in Bulgarian railway history. At the same time, the design looks back to the past, incorporating names of Bulgarian rulers and Proto-Bulgarian Glagolitic letters on its cab ends, connecting the modern locomotive to Bulgaria's rich cultural heritage.
80 054 'Tsar Boris III', seen near Aitos © OnTrack_Creativity for Railways
Fleet Expansion
In 2023, BDZ expanded its Smartron fleet with an additional 10 locomotives, bringing the total number of 'Green Force' units to 25. Unlike the earlier deliveries, the new locomotives will not feature names or Proto-Bulgarian Glagolitic letters on the cab ends.
80 070 shortly after delivery at Sofia Depot in November 2024 © Nikolai Kozarski
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