The genesis of the project

In 2021, the preserved CC40110 by the MFPN association operated several special trains departing from Paris. Faced with this impressive machine, the idea of reproducing this fascinating yet relatively unknown locomotive to the general public took root. During a meeting with the association members at the Gare du Nord during a special train event, our project to recreate this legendary locomotive sparked their enthusiasm.

Subsequently, the MFPN opened its doors for us to take numerous photos for modeling, in addition to recording sounds to bring this train to life in the game.

The control panel in the process of modeling

The beginning of the exterior modeling of the locomotive

A long-term project

The CC40100, being a small series of locomotives (composed of several sub-series undergoing dozens and dozens of modifications), exhibit numerous visual differences meticulously documented based on archive images available on the internet. A long-term project as it required careful observation of all major visual differences for each locomotive.

Discover the differences between the locomotives ingame!

Textures and sounds

Textures

In replicating a locomotive, it is necessary to ensure advanced visual quality to best respect what the real machine was. Stainless steel plates, emblems, bogies, all of this requires giving a simple 3D object textures that reproduce the material as accurately as possible (shine, wear, etc.).

For parts that are difficult to see from certain angles, exploding the 3D model allows reaching all the hard-to-reach areas, as shown below.

The exploded model of CC40110

Thus, without having experienced the locomotive in commercial service, technology still allows us to reproduce the past reality!

The shiny stainless steel of preserved CC40110!

Sounds

The sound aspect was a real challenge on this locomotive. The first step involves creating a sound bank recorded on the locomotive. This requires the use of multiple microphones placed at strategic locations, all while adhering to personnel safety rules. Weather conditions make the task even more complicated, as the simple sound of rain can mask interesting sounds.

Additionally, since CC40110 is a preserved locomotive, it cannot exceed a maximum speed of 120 km/h. Thanks to Mr. Maurice Testu's exceptional videos, we were able to complement our sound bank with his permission.

Audio equipment for sound recordings

Features

The final and no less important step is, of course, programming the features. Beyond a simple reproduction, it is about continuing to bring the French railway heritage to life in every possible aspect!

Thanks to the invaluable help of association members, who provided numerous documents and driving experience feedback, we were able to reproduce almost all of its features.

The main feature being the JH cam combinator (2 Jeumont-Heidman type controllers on the CC40100!), a camshaft allowing, through contactors and resistors, the regulation of voltage at the motor terminals, has been carefully programmed after many explanations and diagrams about the real machine.

A first cabin was born, incomplete and untextured but already allowing the programming of the first buttons and switches!

The features development cabin, still incomplete

First In-Game Runs

After a few months of work, not without difficulties, the ten units of the series, as well as the preserved version of CC40110, made their appearance in Train Simulator. A first step for us had been taken!

CC40110 MFPN, a tribute to the association

The MFPN association was a true driving force in the creation of the locomotive. It seemed necessary to pay tribute to them, and the decision was made to also reproduce CC40110 in a preserved version, maintained and operated by the association with their emblem.

CC40110 MFPN in Train Simulator

Cab Creation

Similar to the exterior of the locomotives, the cabin atmosphere also begins with an impeccable visual aspect. Both in 3D and textures, which must reflect reality. Always with the goal of respecting heritage!

The cab in the paint shop, still new!

The finished cabin

Preview

Following the test by association members, we were invited to present the virtual CC 40110 aboard the special train on September 9, 2023, heading to Le Tréport in an unusual setting: a 1926 postal car.

It was an opportunity to present the locomotive to a diverse audience, young and old, curious and railway enthusiasts. In a way, it was probably the first visit of a CC40100 to Le Tréport!

Conclusion and thanks

That concludes the story of the creation of CC 40100 for Train Simulator Classic! You'll have the pleasure of taking control of this demanding locomotive, traveling through France and Europe.

We sincerely thank the members of the MFPN association without whom this project would not have been possible. Feel free to support them by joining and/or participating in special trips organized by the association. We also thank SNCF Voyages for their trust in our approach, which aims to share our passion through video games.

You'll soon find the pack containing the ten CC 40100, as well as the MFPN version, on our website, in the "Trains" section.