CN tests hybrid locomotive to boost sustainability

CN has unveiled a new medium-horsepower hybrid electric locomotive, developed in collaboration with Knoxville Locomotive Works (KLW), to enhance operational efficiency and reduce emissions.

The 3,200-horsepower locomotive, powered by a 2.4 MWh battery-diesel engine, aims to cut fuel consumption by up to 50 per cent compared to traditional locomotives used in similar operations. The system is 100 per cent biofuel ready and designed for yard and branch line operations, with increased horsepower of up to 60 per cent.

“This CN-led pilot represents another milestone in our sustainability journey and focus on emerging technologies,” said Patrick Whitehead, CN’s executive vice-president and chief network operating officer. “We believe that this hybrid system, if successful, could substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions from our yard operations, while maintaining our commitment to customers and communities across our network.”

The hybrid locomotive will undergo phased testing over the next six months at CN yards and branch lines in Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana, with trials expanding to cold-weather conditions in Western Canada. The initiative is part of CN’s broader decarbonization strategy to achieve net-zero emissions.