SNCF Class BB 63500

SNCF BB 63500
BB 63856 at Longueau in 2019
Type and origin Power type Diesel-electric Builder Brissonneau et Lotz Build date 1956–1971 Total produced 580
Specifications Configuration: ​  • AAR Bo–Bo  • Commonwealth Bo-Bo Gauge 1,435 mm (4 ft 8+1⁄2 in) standard gauge Bogies 2 Wheel diameter 1,050 mm (41 in) Length 14.68 m (48.2 ft) Loco weight 64–68 t (63–67 long tons; 71–75 short tons) Fuel type Diesel Prime mover MGO V12SH
Performance figures Maximum speed 80 km/h (50 mph) Power output 605 kW (811 hp) Tractive effort 167 kN (38,000 lbf)
Career Operators SNCF Number in class 580 Numbers 63501–64080 Nicknames 2 CV du rail

The SNCF Class BB 63500 are a class of centre cab diesel locomotives built for SNCF between 1956 and 1971 by Brissonneau & Lotz. They are a slightly more powerful version of the BB 63400. A total of 580 locomotives were built. Four units, numbers BB 63896, BB 63901, BB 63902 and BB 63906, were equipped with electric train heating and based at La Plaine [fr] for operating trip workings of passenger trains between Paris Gare du Nord and Paris Gare de Lyon round the Petit Ceinture. Three batches, numbered BB 63721–BB 63750, BB 63811–BB 63855 and BB 63981–BB 64020, totalling 115 locomotives, were equipped for multiple working.^[1]