ON SEPTEMBER 7 Electro-Motive Diesel Inc announced that it had signed a contract to supply 300 locomotives to China’s Ministry of Railways.
The 6000hp locos are to be assembled by Dalian Locomotive Works under a technology licensing agreement. Powered by the latest version of EMD’s 265H series engine meeting EPA Tier 2 emissions regulations, the locos will have AC traction drives.
Detailed design is already underway, including production plans for the locally-manufactured components. The first locos are expected to start testing in China during the second half of 2007, with production of the series build to follow over two years.
EMD Chairman Jerry Greenwald commented that ’the Chinese locomotive market has terrific opportunities for future growth and joint development, and we are delighted to be able to participate in it.’
- Two days later, the Ministry of Railways signed a co-operation agreement with Bombardier confirming the earlier framework accord to buy more 200 km/h EMUs for use around Guangzhou (RG 8.05 p486). In addition Bombardier and MoR are to collaborate on the development of a new EMU for speeds greater than 200 km/h which will feature sleeping cars and full restaurant facilities.
