MTA R255 hybrid locomotives: Wabtec wins $386m follow-on deal

MTA R255 hybrid locomotives are the focus of a $386 million follow-on order awarded to Wabtec Corp., covering additional R255 hybrid battery-diesel work locomotives plus spare parts, as reported by Progressive Railroading.

Wabtec said it will build the units at its design and development center in Erie, Pennsylvania, and that deliveries are scheduled to start in 2027, according to a Wabtec press release.

MTA R255 hybrid locomotives and the follow-on order

Wabtec officials said the R255 fleet is meant to replace aging equipment while improving reliability and operational efficiency. They also said the hybrids will help improve air quality across the network, and that the order advances the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) capital plan to revitalize its network infrastructure.

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Hybrid battery-diesel work locomotives for tunnel and work-train duties

The R255 hybrid battery-diesel work locomotives are intended to improve working conditions for maintenance crews, particularly when they are working in rail tunnels. The locomotives can eliminate emissions by using battery power during subway construction, maintenance, and repairs, especially during extended periods in confined areas—an operating focus also described in coverage by Railway Supply.

Wabtec said the approximately 500-kWh locomotives can operate in battery-only mode within confined work zones for several hours. They can also move work trains when third-rail power is deenergized.

Onboard diagnostics and cameras for smart maintenance

For routine work across the system, the R255 locomotive is set up to help maintenance teams with monitoring and troubleshooting. Each unit has cameras and video recorders that capture images of track, lineside assets, and signaling equipment across the network. The locomotives also include onboard diagnostics to support smart maintenance practices.

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