Norfolk Southern and Wabtec Corp. have announced a modernization program to convert 33 of the railroad's ES44DC locomotives into AC-traction ES44ACMs, a project that will run through 2027. The upgrades, performed at Wabtec facilities in Fort Worth, Texas, and Erie, Pennsylvania, include improved control systems and advanced digital technology for enhanced diagnostics and maintenance planning. Norfolk Southern's Chief Operating Officer Brian Barr said the investment will improve reliability, increase efficiency, and extend locomotive life, while Wabtec's Freight Services president Sameer Gaur highlighted the partnership's focus on operational value. The first converted locomotive has already been shipped to Norfolk Southern, and the two companies have collaborated on more than 1,000 DC-to-AC conversions since 2015.
Norfolk Southern CorporationNorfolk Southern modernizes 33 locomotives to AC power, improving reliability and efficiency.
Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies CorpWabtec receives contract to convert locomotives, generating revenue and showcasing partnership.
