In January 2025, ZAGRO launched an extraordinary large-scale project: eleven ZAGRO E-MAXI XXL electric shunting vehicles, each with a shunting capacity of up to 2000 tonnes, were to be manufactured, tested and delivered to New Zealand within just eleven months. Today, it is clear that the project for KiwiRail, implemented on behalf of KH1, has been successfully completed – a milestone for ZAGRO and a strong sign for sustainable, emission-free rail logistics.
A project with a signal effect
The order from KH1 for KiwiRail was much more than a technical challenge. It symbolises the change in international rail transport: away from conventional drives and towards electric, emission-free shunting solutions. With the ZAGRO E-MAXI XXL, the company provides a powerful and environmentally friendly answer to the increasing demands of modern rail networks.
The road to success: precise planning and strong team performance
The eleven electric shunting vehicles were gradually manufactured in series, assembled and, after successful factory acceptance testing (FAT), shipped by sea. The first two ZAGRO E-MAXI XXL vehicles arrived in New Zealand in April 2025. Two further deliveries of three vehicles each followed in September and October 2025.
The last three ZAGRO E-MAXI XXL are currently being shipped and will commence operation at KiwiRail's depots in February 2026. Detailed and forward-looking planning of the sea transport by KH1 ensured that the project was implemented smoothly despite the long distances involved.
Challenges mastered
As with many international industrial projects, there were several challenges: a very tight schedule and technical specifications such as narrow-gauge railways and country- and customer-specific vehicle configurations. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the entire team, who worked overtime, and the close cooperation within the ZAGRO Group – in particular with GMEINDER LOKOMOTIVEN in the manufacture of the vehicle frames and cabins – all challenges were successfully overcome. As a result, the quality of the vehicles remained at the highest level and the schedule was adhered to despite the demanding conditions.
Comments on the project
‘The tireless dedication and commitment of the entire team made this milestone possible,’ says Patrik Oberhagemann, project manager at ZAGRO. Special thanks go to Chris Halley (KH1) for his strategic support and partnership-based exchange on an equal footing, as well as to Amy Chen and Chris Wright from the KiwiRail team for their trust and valuable feedback throughout the project.
ZAGRO E-MAXI XXL: Powerful. Emission-free. Future-proof.
With the successful completion of this major project, the ZAGRO Group underscores its expertise as an international provider of innovative shunting technology. The ZAGRO E-MAXI XXL combines high tractive force, precise control and a fully electric drive – ideal for operators who want to make their shunting processes more efficient and sustainable.
The KiwiRail project is an impressive example of how technological innovation, sustainability and partnership-based cooperation can be combined. ZAGRO will continue to pursue this path – with tailor-made solutions for the challenges facing the global rail network.
