Norfolk Southern and Wabtec Corp. have announced a modernization program that will convert 33 of the railroads ES44DC locomotives into AC-traction ES44ACMs.
“This investment will improve reliability, increase efficiency, and extend locomotive life, helping us deliver safe, dependable service for customers,” NS (NYSE: NSC) Chief Operating Officer Brian Barr said in a release. “Together with Wabtec (NYSE: WAB), we’re continuing to invest in technologies that improve fleet performance and maximize the value of existing assets.”
Along with the conversion to AC traction, the project will also include upgraded control systems and advanced digital technology. The companies say the upgraded locomotives will deliver higher productivity with lower lifecycle maintenance requirements. Among the digital features will be enhanced locomotive diagnostics and maintenance planning.
“This new modernization program underscores the strength of our longstanding partnership with Norfolk Southern and our shared focus on delivering operational value,” said Sameer Gaur, president of Wabtec’s Freight Services. “By combining innovative technology, engineering excellence, and deep service expertise, we’re helping our customers maximize the value of their assets while positioning their fleet for the future.”
Railroads convert older DC-traction locomotives to AC traction mainly because AC propulsion delivers substantially better low-speed pulling power, adhesion, reliability, and lifecycle economics, without buying an entirely new locomotive.
The work will be performed at Wabtec’s facilities in Fort Worth, Texas, and Erie, Pa. The first of the locomotives was shipped to NS this month; the program will continue through 2027.
Norfolk Southern was the launch customer for the ES44DC in 2004. Since 2015, the railroad and manufacturer have collaborated on more than 1,000 DC-to-AC locomotive conversions.
Subscribe to FreightWaves’ Rail e-newsletter and get the latest insights on rail freight right in your inbox.
Read more:
Rail freight puts the pedal to the metal(s) in latest data
Regulators set schedule for review of UP-NS merger
New choices: BNSF expands intermodal rail option between Phoenix and North Texas
Battle of the briefs: UP-NS fires back at AGs anti-merger letter
Brokerage Compliance Symposium
The day before F3. Every compliance issue you face - fraud exposure, carrier liability, FMCSA rules, cargo theft, insurance gaps - navigated by attorneys and operators defining best practices in a changing industry.
F3 Awards Dinner
The night before F3. FreightTech100 companies honored. FreightTech 25 and Shipper of Choice winners revealed live. Cocktail reception into dinner and live music - 300 industry leaders in one purpose-built room.
F3: Future of Freight Festival
Industry-defining keynotes, rapid-fire technology demos, and industry leaders networking in experiences across Chattanooga - plus the inaugural F3 Awards Dinner featuring the FreightTech and Shipper of Choice reveals.
The day before F3. Every compliance issue you face - fraud exposure, carrier liability, FMCSA rules, cargo theft, insurance gaps - navigated by attorneys and operators defining best practices in a changing industry.
The Signal at Chattanooga Choo Choo • Chattanooga, TN Register NowThe night before F3. FreightTech100 companies honored. FreightTech 25 and Shipper of Choice winners revealed live. Cocktail reception into dinner and live music - 300 industry leaders in one purpose-built room.
The Signal at Chattanooga Choo Choo • Chattanooga, TN Register NowIndustry-defining keynotes, rapid-fire technology demos, and industry leaders networking in experiences across Chattanooga - plus the inaugural F3 Awards Dinner featuring the FreightTech and Shipper of Choice reveals.
The Signal at Chattanooga Choo Choo • Chattanooga, TN Register Now