Zephir
Find out who we are

Zephir has been the leader in its sector for over 55 years in the production of road-rail shunting equipment. Today, the production of Zephir vehicles includes the ranges of diesel/electric shunting equipment : LOK, CRAB, and LOK/CRAB rail-only versions.

Our LOKs can tow loads from 600 to 5600 tons.

Our machines can enter and exit the tracks in most work areas thanks to a simple and quick maneuver and is also capable of crossing tracks transversely. Numerous tests conducted by our most qualified customers have shown that it is possible to save more than 50% compared to the total costs of equivalent standard locomotives.

Our CRAB range, primarily electrically powered, is designed for indoor use, offering great versatility and ensuring extremely low operating costs.

All vehicles are manufactured in accordance with the latest European regulations.

Zephir machines can be customized based on the application thanks to a wide range of options such as remote controls, hydraulic sleds, towing bars, automatic couplers, safety devices, etc.

Zephir has produced more than 3000 units, and over 90% are still operational worldwide, in every possible environment and type of logistic and industrial application.
Thanks to its extensive experience, Zephir specializes in solutions tailored to customer needs.

Mission

To be a global company providing innovative solutions in rail movement, serving logistics, large industries, railways and metros, offering distinctive and customized solutions to foster the efficiency and success of our customers worldwide.

Listening to and understanding the needs of our customers,constantly valuing and training our employees to stimulate research and development of our products.

Building a solid future based on innovation while respecting the environment.

Our History

Zephir was founded in 1969 as a manufacturer of industrial tractors and towing vehicles for heavy loads for industrial applications, from steel mills to intermodal terminals and airports.

In 1977, Zephir became the manufacturer of a completely innovative vehicle: the LOCOTRACTOR, a road-rail towing vehicle capable of getting on and off the tracks, which brings significant operational advantages and considerable economic savings.

After many improvements over the years, today, the LOK range has several models suitable for operating in various areas such as connected industrial plants, logistics centers, interports, ports, railway workshops, and more.

In 1965, the CRAB range was created (a bimodal road-rail vehicle capable of getting on and off the tracks), an innovative electric vehicle equipped with a battery and an electric motor capable of operating in confined spaces and enclosed areas such as depots, tunnels, subway railways, and railway workshops.

To adapt to market development and new customer needs, Zephir has created the latest ranges: LOK E (bimodal road-rail electric vehicle) and rail-only LOK. The battery-powered LOK E combines the first Zephir range (LOK) and the electric motor, ensuring high performance with low environmental impact.

In December 2016, Zephir was acquired by Marmon Holdings Inc., to become part of their rail sector. Marmon is a company within the Berkshire Hathaway group, composed of 11 different industrial sectors and more than 125 manufacturing and service companies.

Starting from January 2019, Zephir is part of the Global Railcar Mover Group, which includes Trackmobile and Powerhouse companies.

The Global Railcar Mover Group continues to set new standards for the movement of railcars with numerous innovations in terms of efficiency, reliability, safety, and ease of use.

January 1969

Opening of first plant in Modena office

June 1977

The first Zephir road-rail Locotractor is born.

March 1991

The first range of electric CRABs is born.

December 2016

Warren Buffet’s Marmon Corporation acquires Zephir Italia

July 2019

Zephir turns 50 years old

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