GE unveils new Evolution Series Locomotive

The latest model in GE's fuel efficient and low emissions Evolution series has just hit the tracks. Offering cleaner, significantly faster, safer and more reliable alternative to the aging North American fleet of DC-powered locomotives, the new ES44C4 features a unique Dynamic Weight Management System which automatically improves traction at start up, on inclines or in poor weather conditions.

Fuel savings

The Evolution series Locomotives reduce fuel consumption by 17% and emissions by 70% versus existing DC locomotives. GE claims that six hundred of their latest locomotives can displace up to 800 older locomotives, which is the fuel savings equivalent to taking 115,000 cars off the road for a year. This translates to 48,000 tons of nitrous oxide, 1,500 tons of particulate matter and 1.0 million tons of the green house gas carbon dioxide.

Model ES44C4

The Model ES44C4's patented Dynamic Weight Management System (DWMS) is similar to the traction control in an automobile, continuously monitors traction at the axles and limiting wheel slip in adverse conditions. Two traction motors readily can be added to the Model ES44C4 to create a six-traction-motor.

The ES44C4 also has a higher top speed than traditional DC-powered locomotives and greater reliability - the new AC motors have fewer parts to maintain and eliminate the electrical problems that hamper DC motors.

The new locomotive will be built in GE’s Pennsylvania manufacturing plants in Erie and Grove City and provide a direct replacement option for the current six axle, 4400 HP locomotives being delivered today.

Launched in 2002 and introduced into revenue service in 2005, the Evolution Series Locomotives are currently operating in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, China, Mongolia, Australia, Kazakhstan and Egypt.

GE Transportation also has plans for even bigger emissions savings in future.

David Greig