Krokodil locomotive turns 100 and still captivates rail fans
Wednesday 9th September 2026 on 16:15 in
Switzerland
The legendary Swiss Krokodil locomotive has turned 100 and continues to attract generations of railway enthusiasts, SRF reported on Wednesday. The historic locomotive was once developed to transform freight traffic on the Gotthard route.
When driver Nicolas Stettler brought the locomotive into Olten railway station, it rattled and jolted in the cab as it would have a century ago. Dozens of train fans were waiting on the platform to photograph it and discuss its features.
“The superstar is the locomotive,” Stettler said. “Nobody is interested in me.” Only two vehicles of the third and largest Krokodil variant remain in working order. This locomotive is operated by SBB Historic, and its anniversary journey from Olten to Sissach was sold out.
Fans admire the locomotive for different reasons. Market analyst Martin Lutz called it “the queen of locomotives” because of its distinctive crocodile-like shape. Passenger and train enthusiast Thomas Zeh praised its movement over points, describing it as “ballet for railway enthusiasts.” Student Timeo Braschler highlighted its historical importance as a symbol of the start of electrification on the Gotthard and called it the best SBB locomotive.
A pioneer of electrification
The Krokodil is closely linked to the Gotthard route, described as one of SBB’s most legendary and demanding lines. Steam locomotives there eventually reached their limits as freight trains grew heavier, prompting the development of a new type of electric locomotive in the 1920s: the Ce 6/8 II, followed later by the Ce 6/8 III.
The locomotives featured several technical innovations. Their drive rods still reflected the era of steam locomotives, while their wheels were mounted on two movable bogies to negotiate the Gotthard’s tight curves. Even then, braking energy could be converted back into electricity when travelling downhill.
The name Krokodil is thought to have first appeared for the Ce 6/8 series in a 1933 Märklin catalogue. It likely refers to the locomotives’ distinctive shape, with long front sections and an articulated structure. The miniature version has since become a popular collector’s item.