
The first GP34ECO locomotive built for yard and intermediate operations has been introduced by Progress Rail and Norfolk Southern.
The unit meets Environmental Protection Agency Tier 4 emission standards and is intended to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by 90 percent compared with older locomotives.
The prototype GP35ECO is undergoing testing for EPA certification.
It has a 3,000-hp 12-710 EMD engine and is the first to use a diesel exhaust fluid/selective catalytic reduction aftertreatment system for line-haul locomotive applications.
NS assembled the locomotive core at its Juniata Locomotive Shop in Altoona, Pennsylvania, worked with Progress Rail and Caterpillar on final assembly.
The first GP34ECO will be assigned to NS service in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where it will undergo field testing to ensure that it meets final emissions certification requirements.