Brazilian mining company Vale has reached an agreement with Wabtec to acquire 50 new Evolution Series locomotives for the Vitória a Minas Railroad (EFVM) and Carajás Railroad (EFC). The order forms part of Vale’s ongoing fleet modernisation strategy and decarbonisation initiative aimed at improving efficiency and reducing emissions from its rail operations. The locomotives will be manufactured by Wabtec at its Contagem facility in Brazil, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2026.
“Vale has chosen locomotives that have consolidated performance in the market and are aligned with the company’s focus on sustainability, efficiency and safety,” said Carlos Medeiros, Vice President of Operations at Vale. “The renewal and modernisation plan for the EFVM and EFC fleet is premised on contributing to the future of decarbonisation in the rail sector.”
As part of the fleet renewal programme, Vale will add 36 Wabtec EVOBBW locomotives to EFVM and 14 Wabtec ES58ACi locomotives to EFC. These models are among the most advanced on the market and are designed to operate with a higher proportion of biodiesel, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Vale and Wabtec also plan to conduct trials to explore the possibility of increasing the biodiesel blend in the future.
“We are proud to support Vale and our customers with advanced technologies that reduce CO2 emissions and promote operational efficiency,” said Danilo Miyasato, Wabtec LATAM President and Regional Leader. “Wabtec is at the forefront of innovation and committed to decarbonisation and greater efficiency in the rail sector. We are investing in innovative and sustainable technologies and in the development of engines that use alternative fuels, for a future of zero-emission rail transport.”
The Evolution Series locomotives feature state-of-the-art diesel engine technology, offering improved operational efficiency through fuel savings, extended maintenance intervals, and reduced operating costs. Equipped with AC traction motors, these locomotives also enhance hauling capacity by more than 50%. Already in service on the Carajás Railroad, this model will now be integrated into the Vitória a Minas Railroad fleet.
The Evolution Series locomotives will also support EFVM’s decarbonisation programme. Compared to the FDL engine, this model delivers lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions while also enabling the transition to alternative fuels in the future. Additionally, the locomotives are designed with wider cabs to enhance ergonomics and crew comfort, and they feature an easily accessible layout for on-board systems, simplifying maintenance.
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