In November 2025, GMEINDER LOKOMOTIVEN delivered two D60 C locomotives to K+S AG. They will be put into service at the Werra plant, the largest potash site of K+S Minerals & Agriculture GmbH. This three-axle, diesel-hydraulic shunting locomotive, developed by a subsidiary of the ZAGRO Group, combines maximum performance with modern technology and is designed for compact shunting logistics at salt and mining sites.
Focus on technology – what makes the D60C so special
With an output of 690 kW and 218 kN of tractive force, the D60 C is designed for shunting work. Its large fuel tank allows the locomotive to be used flexibly, which is particularly important in the 24-hour logistics processes of the salt works.
The Werra plant – the heart of K+S AG
The Werra plant was created in 1997 through the merger of four plants (Hattorf, Wintershall, Unterbreizbach, Merkers). Today, it is considered the largest potash site of K+S Minerals & Agriculture GmbH – the largest salt and mineral producer in Germany.
The plant extracts around 20 million tonnes of raw salt annually and, in addition to fertilisers, also produces precursors for pharmaceuticals, food and animal feed. With almost 4,700 employees, including 300 trainees, Werra is a major employer and a key driver of economic development in eastern Hesse and western Thuringia.
Future forecast – 4 more locomotives in the pipeline
GMEINDER LOKOMOTIVEN has already received orders for four more D60C locomotives for K+S AG, which are to be delivered in the coming years. These orders will enable:
- A uniform locomotive fleet – lower maintenance costs, higher availability
- Scalable shunting capacities – adaptation to increasing production volumes
The role of the ZAGRO Group
As a leading manufacturer of shunting locomotives, GMEINDER LOKOMOTIVEN has been active in the industry for many years. The company is part of the ZAGRO Group and supplies modern locomotives The delivery of the D60 C locomotives to K+S AG demonstrates how the ZAGRO Group offers its customers real added value with modern rail vehicles, comprehensive service packages and sustainable technologies.
