Wabtec has secured a $386 million order from Metropolitan Transportation Authority to supply additional R255 battery-diesel hybrid work locomotives for New York City’s subway system.
The order covers 45 locomotives and spare parts. The purchase follows an initial 25-locomotive order placed in 2020. The new locomotives will replace diesel-only equipment dating from the late 1960s and 1970s.
Wabtec will manufacture the locomotives at its facility in Erie, Pennsylvania. Deliveries will begin in 2027. The R255 locomotives use hybrid battery-diesel technology designed for subway maintenance operations. Each unit includes a battery system of approximately 500 kilowatt-hours and can operate in battery-only mode within tunnels and confined work zones. The locomotives can also move work trains when third-rail power is de-energized.
Additional features include onboard diagnostics and camera systems used to monitor track, signaling, and other infrastructure assets during maintenance activities.