Wabtec Corp. and CSX Corp. have agreed to modernize more than 200 locomotives, incorporating a comprehensive array of digital solutions, innovations, and services. This collaborative effort aims to enhance the fuel efficiency, reliability, utilization, and tractive effort of the remaining AC4400 locomotives in CSX’s fleet.
“This commitment to modernization aligns with our dedication to delivering excellence for our customers, shareholders, employees, and communities,” stated Mike Cory, CSX executive vice president and chief operating officer. He emphasized the significance of Wabtec’s modernization program in maximizing the capabilities of CSX’s existing fleet. The upgrades are poised to enhance asset reliability, enabling the transportation of more freight with fewer locomotives and contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions.
CSX’s fleet modernization initiative forms a crucial part of the railroad’s broader strategy to leverage innovative fuel-saving locomotive technologies and engage with suppliers to meet sustainability goals. This latest order continues the transformation of the AC4400 locomotives in CSX’s fleet, promoting improved operational performance and a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions.
Gina Trombley, Wabtec executive vice president of sales and marketing, and chief commercial officer – Americas, highlighted the significance of these modernizations in maximizing the value of CSX’s existing AC4400 fleet. The incorporation of state-of-the-art technology aims to enhance locomotive performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability, while simultaneously reducing ongoing maintenance costs. This modernized fleet is strategically positioned to support CSX’s long-term sustainability and service objectives.
The over 200 modernized locomotives from CSX will integrate a suite of Wabtec hardware innovations, including the FDL Advantage (FDLA) engine upgrade, and digital solutions like LOCOTROL® Expanded Architecture (LXA). These technologies are anticipated to achieve up to 8% fuel savings and carbon reduction, striving for approximately 170 tons of carbon reduction per locomotive per year. Wabtec aims for the total order to realize around 35,000 tons in annual carbon reductions, equivalent to removing emissions from nearly 8,000 passenger cars annually.
In addition to extending the locomotives’ operational lives, the modernizations target a reliability increase of up to 35% and tractive effort improvement of up to 14%. This results in greater availability and enhanced capabilities for CSX’s AC4400 fleet, all achieved at reduced operating costs.
Wabtec is set to carry out the modernization work at its locomotive plants in the United States from 2024 to 2028. This contract adds to the 260 modernizations previously ordered by CSX, with the majority already delivered.
About Wabtec
Wabtec Corporation (NYSE: WAB) is revolutionizing the way the world moves for future generations. The company is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions and value-added services for the freight and transit rail industries, as well as the mining, marine and industrial markets. Wabtec has been a leader in the rail industry for over 150 years and is the worldwide leader in the decarbonization of freight rail. Visit Wabtec’s website at www.wabteccorp.com.