CN PURCHASES EMD MAINLINE HYBRID LOCOMOTIVE FROM PROGRESS RAIL

CN announced the purchase of its first hybrid diesel-battery electric mainline locomotive from Progress Rail, a Caterpillar Company, as part of its decarbonization plans. CN is collaborating on this initiative with the Province of British Columbia under the Clean BC Go Electric Commercial Vehicle Pilots Program.

The plug-in hybrid mainline locomotive, a first of its kind in North America, will be evaluated on CN’s mainline in British Columbia, starting in Prince George and the northern part of the province, under varying operational and weather conditions. The testing will increase CN’s and the rail industry’s knowledge on battery technology and more specifically, on the impact of alternative propulsion technology on mainline locomotives. As different alternative propulsion solutions will require batteries – including hybrid, battery-electric, and hydrogen fuel cell locomotives – CN anticipates this initiative will contribute to the further development of this key technology, while immediately reducing emissions.

CN is the most fuel-efficient railway in North America, using approximately 15% less locomotive fuel per gross ton mile than the industry average. In 2023, CN was recognized for its leadership in sustainability by S&P Global and its leadership on climate change by the global environmental non-profit CDP. The continuing successful development and availability of alternative propulsion technology is part of a portfolio of emissions reduction initiatives to support CN in achieving its greenhouse gas emission targets.