Pittsburgh-based Wabtec Corp., a equipment, systems, digital solutions and services provider for the freight and transit rail industries, recently learned the New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) approved the Wabtec R255 Hybrid Battery-Diesel Work Locomotive for maintenance operations on the agency’s subway network.
“The success and strong performance in the testing are a testament to our collaborative effort with the MTA to design and build the hybrid locomotives,” Alan Hamilton, Wabtec vice president of engineering, said. “These locomotives are tailored to the unique needs of MTA’s subway maintenance operations. The hybrids feature ruggedized battery pack technology designed for the demanding rail environment. This solution provides the MTA with the flexibility and features to conduct the maintenance work efficiently and sustainably.”
The MTA placed its order in 2020 to replace a fleet of diesel locomotives built in the 1960s and 70s. The approximately 500-kilowatt hour, R255 hybrid locomotive uses battery power for up to eight hours while conducting work in confined work zones. In areas where third rail power has been removed for safety, the batteries can move work trains. This feature allows the locomotive to reduce, or eliminate, fuel emissions during subway construction, maintenance, and repairs.
Wabtec built the locomotives at its Erie design and development center.