TheCC 21000 was a class ofelectric locomotives in service with the French railwaysSNCF, built byAlsthom in 1969 and 1974. It was a dual voltage version of theCC 6500 class working off both 1500 V DC and25 kV 50 Hz AC. Initially allocated toDijon, the first two, CC 21001 and CC21002, were fitted with cab signalling to allow them to operate test trains on the new high speed lines.[1]
In 1977,Amtrak borrowed SNCF CC21003 for testing purposes. This engine was rebuilt by Alstom with its transformer and electrical components replaced with those compatible withAmtrak's 25 Hz traction power system, taller pantographs, Amtrak's cab signaling system, US style couplers, a bell, and other components required by theAAR for operation on US railroads, including a Nathan P01235 air horn used on the more well knownE60s. This engine and a SwedishSJ Rc4 were imported and tested by Amtrak to determine the best design to replace the agingPRR GG1's operating on theirNortheast Corridor. They were numbered by Amtrak as X996 and X995 respectively. However, the X996's suspension system proved unsuitable for the relatively rough US track construction, and despite modifications made over the course of testing, the engine's performance was deemed unsatisfactory for Amtrak's use. Thus, Amtrak favored the Rc4 design, which would serve as the basis for theirEMD AEM-7. After testing was completed, X996 was returned to France, reverted to its pre-Amtrak appearance and specifications, and continued to operate on the SNCF[2] until withdrawn and scrapped in 2005.[3]
The CC 21000's were rebuilt into classCC 6500 in 1995 and 1996, taking the numbers CC 6575–CC 6578. All were withdrawn by 2005. CC 6575 (Formerly 21001) is preserved on static display at the SNCF Nimes Depot in Nîmes, Languedoc-Roussillon, France, approximately 45.6km Northeast from Montpellier, France.
