Wabtec Corporation has won an additional USD 386 million order to supply R255 hybrid work locomotives, powered by batteries and diesel engines, to New York’s public transport operator (Metropolitan Transportation Authority – MTA). The order is part of the transportation authority’s investment plan to modernize transit infrastructure and improve the safety and efficiency of maintenance operations.
The expanded agreement includes both the locomotives themselves and spare parts packages, and strengthens the long-standing collaboration between Wabtec and MTA.
Hybrid locomotives for maintenance work on the New York subway
The new R255 locomotives will be built at Wabtec’s design and development center in Erie, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2027. They will replace the older equipment currently used for maintenance work, helping to increase the reliability and operational efficiency of the New York subway network.
According to Wabtec, hybrid locomotives play a key role in the MTA’s network modernization strategy, as they are designed to support safer and more environmentally friendly operations.
“The success of the R255 hybrid locomotive is the result of close collaboration between Wabtec and the MTA. This partnership has enabled the development of a solution tailored to the maintenance requirements of the subway system in an efficient and reliable manner,” said Alan Hamilton, vice president of engineering at Wabtec.
Zero-emission operation in tunnels
One of the main advantages of the R255 locomotive is its ability to operate without emissions, using only the energy stored in its batteries when working in tunnels or other enclosed areas. The locomotive is equipped with approximately 500 kWh batteries, which allow it to operate in “battery only” mode for several hours, including in situations where the third rail power supply is disabled.
This feature helps improve working conditions for maintenance crews by reducing exposure to pollutants and noise during construction, maintenance, and repair work on the subway network.
Smart maintenance
In addition to hybrid propulsion, R255 locomotives are equipped with video cameras and recording systems that enable monitoring of infrastructure, including track, signaling, and line equipment.
Integrated diagnostic systems also support the application of predictive maintenance practices, helping to increase equipment availability and reduce intervention times.
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