CN Launches Hybrid Locomotive to Boost Sustainable Rail Transport
Montreal, Friday, 17 January 2025.
CN introduces a hybrid locomotive, aiming for 50% fuel reduction and operational efficiency, demonstrating innovation amidst increasing environmental and economic pressures.
Groundbreaking Technology Partnership
Canadian National Railway (CN: NYSE) has unveiled its first medium-horsepower hybrid electric locomotive, the Q19-2.4GH, developed in collaboration with Knoxville Locomotive Works (KLW) [1][2]. The innovative 3,200-horsepower unit, designated as No. 7100, features a sophisticated 2.4MWh-700HP battery-diesel engine that is fully compatible with biofuel technology [2]. This hybrid system is designed to achieve up to 50% reduction in fuel consumption compared to conventional locomotives used in similar operations [1][2][3].
Strategic Implementation Plan
The pilot project, launched on January 16, 2025, will undergo comprehensive testing across CN’s network [6][7]. The locomotive will be deployed in phases over the next six months, with initial testing occurring across yards and branch lines in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana [1][3]. Patrick Whitehead, CN’s Executive Vice President and Chief Network Operating Officer, emphasizes that this initiative represents ‘another milestone in our sustainability journey and focus on emerging technologies’ [2].
Industry-Wide Innovation Movement
CN’s hybrid locomotive project positions the company at the forefront of rail industry innovation alongside its competitors. Other major railways are pursuing similar sustainable initiatives, with Canadian Pacific Kansas City and CSX piloting hydrogen fuel cell battery electric locomotives, while Union Pacific has ordered 20 battery-electric locomotives for delivery in late 2025 or early 2026 [2]. This movement demonstrates the rail industry’s collective push toward reducing environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency [GPT].
Future Implications and Testing
The project’s scope extends beyond initial southern U.S. testing, with plans to evaluate the locomotive’s performance in cold weather conditions in Western Canada [1][2][3]. This comprehensive testing approach will enable CN to assess both efficiency and operating protocols across diverse climate conditions. The initiative is part of CN’s broader commitment to achieving net-zero emissions, complementing other previously announced locomotive pilots [1][3].