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WAP-7

WAP-7 is one of the most successful modern passenger locomotives of Indian Railways. Developed from the WAG-9 platform, it is designed to haul heavy passenger trains while providing strong acceleration and regenerative braking.

Type
Electric Passenger Locomotive
Power
6,000 HP
Top speed
140 km/h
Manufacturer
Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW)
Introduced
2000

WAP-7 is one of the most successful modern passenger locomotives of Indian Railways. Developed from the WAG-9 platform, it is designed to haul heavy passenger trains while providing strong acceleration and regenerative braking.

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The WAP-7 is one of the most important electric passenger locomotive classes used by Indian Railways.

The locomotive was developed by Chittaranjan Locomotive Works using technology derived from the three-phase WAG-9 electric freight locomotive platform. The first WAP-7 entered service around 2000.

Its class designation explains its purpose:

W — Broad Gauge A — AC Electric P — Passenger 7 — Locomotive class/generation designation

The standard WAP-7 is approximately a 6,000 HP locomotive capable of speeds up to 140 km/h.

Unlike the lighter WAP-5, which focuses more heavily on higher-speed operation, the WAP-7 is particularly effective at hauling long and heavy passenger trains. Its six powered axles provide substantial adhesion and tractive effort.

WAP-7 locomotives have become associated with many important Indian passenger services, including premium and long-distance trains.

Another major advantage is regenerative braking. Instead of relying entirely on conventional friction brakes, the traction motors can generate electrical power during braking and return energy to the overhead electrical system.

A special higher-speed development known as the WAP-7HS has also been developed by RDSO for speeds up to 160 km/h. The standard WAP-7, however, should be listed on your website as 140 km/h.

Its combination of power, reliability and versatility has made the WAP-7 a major workhorse of modern Indian passenger rail operations.

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