Wabtec has been awarded a 386 million USD follow-on order for the delivery of a number of additional R255 hybrid-diesel work locomotives for the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).
The order forms a key part of the MTA’s Capital Plan to both revitalise the city’s transport network and improve the capabilities and safety of its maintenance crews.
Including both locomotives and spare parts; the expanded agreement will see Wabtec build the R255s at its design and development centre in Erie, PA, with deliveries scheduled to commence in 2027.
All new units will replace current equipment and aim to offer enhanced reliability and operational efficiency whilst contributing to improved air quality across the network.
Utilising battery power during subway construction, maintenance and repairs; the R255 hybrid locomotive is intended to benefit MTA working crews by improving work conditions and eliminating unnecessary emissions.
Each 500-kWh unit is capable of working in battery mode within confined work zones for several hours, and can move work trains whilst the third power rail is out of use.
The locomotives also feature advanced capabilities aimed at support maintenance crews during day-to-day work; including cameras, video recorders and onboard diagnostics systems.
Alan Hamilton, Vice President of Engineering for Wabtec, said:The success of the R255 hybrid locomotive is a tribute to the strong working relationship between Wabtec and the MTA.
Our collaboration positioned this locomotive as the ideal solution to maintain the subway system efficiently and reliably.
