Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Moroccan diesel-electric passenger train in Casablanca Port, 1961


A Chemins de Fer du Maroc Class XDD diesel-electric train built by Alsthom & De Dietrich in 1956. Although 8 sets were built that year they were only delivered in 1961

This train consists of two power cars and five air-conditioned carriages, two second class and three first class. The power cars were Bo-2 type, 100 hp traction + 210 hp, auxiliary, 140 km/h top speed, 58 tonnes (tare?) and had a luggage compartment.

The 20 unpowered cars were of the following types:
* 1st class /bar
* 2nd class
* 2nd class / office
* couchettes
* sleeper / salon / observation

 This is one of the trains with the Sultan's emblem.

These sets were originally intended for the night service between the port of Oran (Algeria), in connection with the maritime link from France and Casablanca. Due to Morocco's independence this service didn't happen and the units remained in store in France until 1961. They were then used on express day trains between Casablanca and Tangier, with two railcars and either 4 or 5 carriages in between comprising 180-200 seats. They were also used on special charter trains, as well as for royal trains, until they were retired in 1975. 

The cars were then used as hauled stock, joining the three couchettes carriages which were used on night trains between Casa and Oujda from 1961.

No comments: