First Hybrid Locomotives Sold in North America
Published: August 22, 2008
Source: SustainableBusiness.com News
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Bombardier Transportation (BBD.TO)announced today it has signed two contracts to supply the first North American hybrid, or dual-powered, passenger locomotives to the New Jersey Transit Corporation and the Agence Metropolitaine de Transport (AMT) in Montreal.

The new dual-powered locomotives are capable of operating under both diesel power and alternating current electric power from overhead sources. The flexible power system will enable the locomotives to operate across the entire NJ TRANSIT and AMT rail systems, which include both electrified and non-electrified lines.

The order from NJ Transit, valued at approximately 178 million euros ($262 million US), is for 26 dual-powered locomotives, capable of running on both diesel power and alternating current electric power from overhead sources. The contract includes options for an additional 63 locomotives.

The order from AMT, valued at approximately 152 million euros ($223 million US), is for 20 dual-powered locomotives.

Locomotives for both contracts will be built at Bombardier manufacturing facilities in Germany and Poland. Delivery to clients is scheduled to begin in 2011.

"We are proud to support NJ TRANSIT and AMT in their continuing commitment to provide modern, efficient, environmentally-friendly passenger rail service." said Ake Wennberg, President, Locomotives and Equipment Division, Bombardier Transportation.

NJ TRANSIT is the third largest provider of public transit in the United States. AMT is the second largest commuter rail service in Canada and the sixth in terms of ridership in North America. AMT is the umbrella organization that plans, integrates and coordinates public transportation services across the greater Montreal region.