8334 The SNCF bo-bo electric BB12079 in green
Prototype Information
| The BB 12000 class are
associated most strongly with the arrival of the 25 kV Ac overhead system
in the north-east of France. The first examples were delivered in 1954 and
were similar in appearance to the BB 13000 , CC 14100 and 14000. Their
introduction, quickly allowed the withdrawal of steam traction first of
all between Valenciennes and Thionville then from other major routes in
north-east France as electrification spread. These centre cab locomotives
were equipped with Jacquemin bogies similar to those fitted to BB 9004.
The first locos were based at Ardennes Mohon depot, then Thionville and
Strasbourg. The operating range of these machines gradually extended to Lille, Strasbourg, Metz then Paris.
The position of the circuit breaker in roof made the driving cab quite noisy, particularly when passing neutral sections. Similarly the installation of the tachographs, allied with the driving position, meaning that the driver had to turn his head to observe the route, quickly made them unpopular and uncomfortable for the operating staff. One example is preserved and featured in the Champs Elysee exhibition in 2003 |
| Type | BB12000 |
A BB12000 class viewed from the train showing the awkward position of the driving seat |
| Number built: | 148 | |
| Number Series | BB 12001 to 12148 | |
| Operating area : | Eastern Region | |
| Maximum speed: | 120 km/h (75 mile/h) | |
| Power | 3360 HP | |
| Operating Voltage | 25Kv | |
|
Weight |
86 tons | |
| Date entered service: | 1954 to 1961 | |
| Builders | Alsthom, CEM, SW | |
| Withdrawn | December 28, 1999 |