CC205 Bukit Asam

The CC205 class, often regarded as the muscle of Indonesia’s freight operations, was introduced around 2011 to bolster the logistics capabilities of South Sumatra’s coal corridors. Built by GE Transportation and based on the AC44i platform, the CC205 was Indonesia’s first true heavy-haul diesel locomotive using AC traction technology.

Unlike the older CC202s and CC203s, which relied on DC traction motors, the CC205’s AC traction enabled superior adhesion and hauling capability under extreme conditions. With an impressive 4,500 horsepower output and Co-Co wheel configuration, these locomotives were specifically engineered to pull kilometer-long coal trains across Sumatra’s challenging terrains.

Visually, the CC205 is imposing. Its long frame, powerful dynamic brakes, and dual-cab configuration are painted in a striking white-blue-orange scheme symbolizing PT KAI’s commitment to modernization.

In daily operations, CC205s are mostly deployed along the Tanjung Enim–Tarahan corridor, transporting millions of tons of coal annually. Their reliability has drastically increased freight volumes and reduced delays previously caused by older equipment breakdowns.

Trivia: Railfans often nickname the CC205 units as 'Kerbau Besi' or 'Iron Buffaloes' due to their strength and relentless working schedules hauling coal under punishing tropical conditions.

Massive diesel-electric freight locomotive with heavy-set body, bold white-blue-orange PT KAI (Divre III) livery, and distinctive twin cab design optimized for coal hauling.

Diesel-Electric Locomotive built by General Electric (AC44i platform), AC traction motors, Co-Co wheel arrangement, 4,500 horsepower, heavy haul optimized, dynamic braking system.

The deployment of CC205 units marked the beginning of Indonesia’s heavy-haul railway era. With continuous upgrades and training, PT KAI’s Divre III South Sumatra division achieved record coal transport figures, driven by the unmatched hauling power and rugged durability of the CC205 fleet.