More Siemens Charger diesel locomotives ordered

USA: Siemens has received orders for a further 34 Charger diesel locomotives from three states, the company announced on November 6. This includes 14 locomotives for California, eight for Maryland and 12 for Illinois.

All have been ordered as options on the initial $225m contract for 32 locos awarded in 2014 by Illinois Department of Transportation on behalf of a multi-state consortium. This deal included options for up to 225 more, including 150 with extended-range fuel tanks.

The latest announcement covers 14 ordered by Caltrans for use on Amtrak's state-supported Pacific Surfliner corridor between San Luis Obispo, Los Angeles and San Diego in California. The 200 km/h locomotives are expected to displace older F59PH units, reducing exhaust emissions.

Maryland DOT has placed a previously-announced order for eight Chargers to replace electric locomotives hauling MARC commuter trains on the Northeast Corridor.

IDOT announced at the AREMA conference during Railway Interchange that it was to exercise an option for another 12 locomotives in conjunction with the upgrading of the Chicago – St Louis route for 177 km/h operation.

The 4400 hp locomotives will be powered by the new Cummins QSK95 engine, fitted with Selective Catalytic Reduction to meet the Tier 4 emissions standards. Cummins began delivery of the first engines to Siemens' Sacramento plant in September.