Canadian National (CN) has introduced its innovative hybrid diesel electric locomotive, marking a significant milestone in sustainable rail operations and setting the stage for a greener future. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Canadian National (CN) has introduced its innovative hybrid diesel electric locomotive, marking a significant milestone in sustainable rail operations and setting the stage for a greener future
Canadian National Q19-2.4GH No. 7100, developed with Knoxville Locomotive Works, is the railway’s first hybrid diesel electric locomotive. CN

Revolutionizing Rail Operations with the Hybrid Diesel Electric Locomotive

The Q19-2.4GH hybrid diesel electric locomotive is a collaborative effort by CN and Knoxville Locomotive Works. This groundbreaking model, equipped with a 2.4MWh battery-diesel engine, offers 3,200 horsepower and supports 100% biofuel readiness. By utilizing a former BNSF Genset locomotive as its foundation, CN demonstrates its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

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This hybrid locomotive reduces fuel consumption by nearly 50%, delivering immediate environmental benefits. CN aims to advance hybrid locomotive technology while contributing to global decarbonization goals, aligning its operations with a sustainable future.

Phased Deployment of the Hybrid Diesel Electric Locomotive

Over the next six months, the hybrid locomotive will be deployed across CN yards and branch lines in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Testing in Western Canada’s cold weather conditions will follow, ensuring reliable performance under diverse environments.

This step-by-step rollout allows CN to refine operating protocols and evaluate efficiency. Data collected during the trial phases will support the wider adoption of hybrid technologies across CN’s network.

CN’s sustainability roadmap includes ambitious decarbonization programs, such as its previously announced order of a Wabtec FLXdrive battery-electric locomotive for Pennsylvania operations. The Q19-2.4GH project complements similar industry initiatives by competitors like Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern.

Union Pacific is testing 20 battery-electric locomotives, while BNSF collaborates on hydrogen fuel-cell technologies. Canadian Pacific Kansas City and CSX are also pioneering hydrogen fuel-cell locomotives for yard operations.

By integrating the hybrid diesel electric locomotive into its fleet, CN reinforces its leadership in sustainable rail innovation. This initiative underscores the company’s dedication to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing eco-friendly rail transportation.

The hybrid diesel electric locomotive, through its design and performance, represents a transformative step for the rail industry. As CN refines its processes, the company sets a benchmark for sustainability while maintaining its commitment to customers and communities.

Source: www.trains.com

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