BB 9200 - BB 9700

The BB 9200 electric locomotives, designed in the 1950s, marked a turning point in French railway history. Built by Alsthom, they were adapted to 1500 V direct current and designed for long-distance service. With a maximum speed of 160 km/h, they became the queens of fast trains, notably on the legendary Paris-Toulouse line and other major routes. Their modular design and sturdiness earned them a long career.

BB 9700s, derived from BB 9200s, were modified for the specific signalling requirements of the South-West network, notably on the Bordeaux-Hendaye line. They shared the same performance as their predecessors, while meeting specific technical requirements.

These locomotives, notably the BB 9200s, became legendary for pulling the Capitole, France's first 200 km/h train. Phased out in the 2000s, some of these locomotives have been preserved as museum pieces, testifying to their emblematic role in the golden age of French railways.