Metro-North Railroad has placed new Siemens Charger locomotives into passenger service on the Hudson Line. The 4,200-horsepower dual-mode engines reduce airborne pollutants by 85 percent and provide 1,000 more horsepower than the fleet they replace.
The locomotives can operate in electric mode for the entire 102 miles of third-rail territory, compared with the four-mile electric range of the older GE P32s. They are compliant with Tier IV emission standards, reducing noise and improving air quality in densely populated areas.
Onboard monitoring and diagnostic systems allow crews to detect and address issues quickly, improving reliability. The locomotives also support long-term operational efficiency and reduced maintenance costs.
Siemens Mobility is manufacturing the units in Sacramento, California, under a $414 million contract awarded in 2021. Metro-North will receive 27 units through 2027. Funding comes from the MTA’s 2015–2019 and 2020–2024 Capital Plans, with additional support from the Federal Transit Administration.