Lokomotive

Lokomotive refers to a rail vehicle that provides the propulsion for a train. It is a self-contained unit that draws power for traction from an onboard energy source or from an external supply, and it is distinct from the passenger cars and freight wagons it pulls.

Historically, locomotives were first widely developed in the early 19th century for steam propulsion, with early experiments by Trevithick and successful locomotives such as Stephenson’s Rocket of 1829. Steam locomotives dominated railroading for the rest of the 19th and early 20th centuries, enabling rapid expansion of rail networks. From the mid-20th century, many railways replaced steam with diesel-electric and electric locomotives, which offered greater efficiency, reliability and speed.

Propulsion types include steam, diesel-electric and electric. Steam locomotives burn fuel to heat water and create steam that drives pistons connected to the wheels. Diesel-electric locomotives use a diesel engine to drive an electrical generator, with traction motors converting electrical power to wheel motion. Electric locomotives draw power from overhead lines or a third rail and use electrical traction motors. Modern locomotives may use regenerative braking and advanced control systems for efficiency.

Design features commonly include wheel arrangements, such as two- or four-axle configurations for steam locomotives, bogie designs for lighter weight and better stability, and multiple unit or locomotive-hauled configurations. Locomotives are often paired with wagons; some locomotives are configured for yard work or shunting, while others are designed for long-distance mainline service.

Today, locomotives remain essential for rail transport, with ongoing development in high efficiency traction, automation, and alternative fuels such as hydrogen or battery power. The term Lokomotive is also used in German and some other languages to denote the locomotive itself.