Since September 22, Siemens Charger SC42-DM locomotives have gone into service on Metro-North’s commuter lines, making the New York rail system more environmentally friendly and resilient.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Siemens Charger Locomotives Begin Service on Metro-North Lines
Photo: MTA

Siemens Charger Launches a New Era in U.S. Rail Transport

These new units are replacing the old General Electric P32AC-DM locomotives that were manufactured during the 1990s.

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The old trains had limited Electric operation of 6.5 kilometers, but the new Siemens Charger units utilize the power from the third rail throughout the entire electrified network that covers over 160 kilometers. This development reduces carbon emissions considerably as well as operating expenses.

There is a 3.1 MW diesel prime mover per locomotive that complies with the Tier 4 environmental standard to ensure minimum harmful emissions. The top speed is 177 km/h in diesel operating mode and 128 km/h with the power from the third rail. The locomotives can be versatile to meet different infrastructures with this double-mode operation to achieve consistent operation.

Siemens Charger Boosts Metro-North’s Efficiency and Reliability

Siemens Mobility developed the SC42-DM with North American infrastructure in mind, where both non-electrified and electrified parts coexist. Advanced traction and power management ensure less wear on components, while predictive modulars assist in averting downtime and enhancing serviceability.

New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) took delivery of 33 Siemens Charger locomotives with contracts awarded in 2021 and 2023 worth $414 million. Siemens Mobility’s Sacramento plant will deliver the locomotives by 2027. The investments are a demonstration of MTA’s efforts towards minimizing carbon footprints as well as boosting passenger comfort.

The Siemens Charger is the future of American rail transportation — combining diesel strength and electric smarts. This is a powerful indication of how innovation and sustainability can go together to transform rail mobility.

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What is the Siemens Charger?

The Siemens Charger is a dual-mode locomotive that operates on both diesel power and third-rail electricity. It is designed for commuter and intercity rail services.

When will Siemens Charger deliveries for Metro-North be completed?

All 33 locomotives are expected to be delivered by 2027 from Siemens Mobility’s Sacramento factory.

Can Siemens Charger operate on non-electrified lines?

Yes. Each unit includes a powerful diesel engine, allowing it to perform efficiently on any section of the network.

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