description Soviet VL80 Overview
The VL80 is a family of Soviet 25 kV AC electric freight locomotives produced by the Novocherkassk Electric Locomotive Plant starting in 1961. The designation "VL" stands for Vladimir Lenin, a common naming convention for Soviet electric locomotives. These heavy double-section locomotives are among the most numerous electric locomotive classes ever built and were the primary freight haulers across the electrified broad-gauge network of the USSR and later Russia.
help Soviet VL80 FAQ
Why does the Soviet VL80 consist of two connected sections?
Most VL80 locomotives are twin-section units, giving them the adhesion and electrical capacity needed for heavy freight trains. Each section has its own cab and equipment, allowing sections to be coupled into a powerful articulated working unit.
What electrical system does the VL80 use?
The VL80 was designed for 25 kV, 50 Hz AC electrified railways. This distinguished it from Soviet DC freight designs such as the VL10.
What do the letters VL in VL80 mean?
VL honors Vladimir Lenin, a naming convention used across several Soviet electric-locomotive classes. The locomotives were built primarily at the Novocherkassk Electric Locomotive Plant.
How did VL80S differ from earlier VL80 variants?
The VL80S added multiple-unit control that allowed more than two sections to work together from one driving cab. Other major variants, including VL80K, VL80T, and VL80R, reflected changes in rectifiers, braking, and traction control.
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