[EN] This series of (coal) steam locomotives was brought into operation by the SNCF around 1950 and was operated until the early '70s. It was the most powerful steam locomotive produced in series in Europe (3 MW). While there were many more powerful locomotives in the USA, most if not all of them were only used for freight, whereas the French 241 P was used for passenger service.

The 241 P 17 was repaired by an association and is used for special trains. The 241 P 9 may one day be brought back into a working condition too, but progress is slow (I remember it was already under work when I was in Toulouse 15 years ago).

[FR] Cette série de locomotives à vapeur (au charbon) de la SNCF fut mise en service autour de 1950 et a fini sa carrière au début des années 70. C’était la locomotive de série la plus puissante d’Europe (3 MW). Il a existé pas mal de locomotives plus puissantes aux États-Unis, mais la plupart voire toutes ces dernières ne servaient qu’au fret, alors que la 241 P effectuait les services voyageurs.

La 241 P 17 a été réparée par une association et effectue des voyages touristiques. La 241 P 9 va peut-être enfin pouvoir reprendre du service aussi, mais les progrès sont lents (ils avaient déjà commencé à la retaper quand j’étais à Toulouse il y a 15 ans).