Why is it in Europe, an engine like our GP7, would be called a Bo-Bo instead od a B-B?
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Because that's what they call it! Why does there have to be a reason?
In Europe they use a different classification system than the American Whyte system.
It is the UIC system which stands for the International Union of Railways. The system is more versatile then the simplified Whyte system and can categorize every wheel arrangement possible.
According to Wikipedia : "It is a more versatile system than Whyte notation, making fewer assumptions about locomotive layout. Some locomotives are impossible to classify using Whyte notation, but UIC classification handles them easily. The UIC classification is also much more suited to diesel and electric locomotives."
For more information http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UIC_classification
Europe does have some odd truck arrangements.
The Bo-zo was an odd one. 
Mike,
Isn't it a
Co′Co′ - Two bogies or wheel assemblies under the unit. Each truck has three powered axles individually-driven by traction motors?
ChipR
Originally Posted by ChipR:
Mike,
Isn't it a
Co′Co′ - Two bogies or wheel assemblies under the unit. Each truck has three powered axles individually-driven by traction motors?
ChipR
Correct, if you're referring to the wheel arrangement. I was referring to the name "BoBo" painted on the side of the nose. 
