CN announced what it said was an advancement in its hybrid locomotive development program, marking another important milestone in the company’s commitment to innovative, more efficient and more sustainable rail operations.
Following a successful initial pilot project with a hybrid locomotive, CN now has three locomotives under test and is working to convert two additional locomotives into hybrid-electric platforms with AC traction technology by the end of 2026. Through this industry-first approach, CN expects to improve fuel efficiency, reliability, and operational performance, while extending asset life and reducing emissions.
In its successful pilot project, CN has achieved up to a 50 percent improvement in fuel efficiency, along with significant reductions in traditional engine-related failures, increased horsepower, and reduced idling, contributing to lower noise and emissions in the communities where CN operates. Testing was conducted in both hot and extreme cold conditions, helping teams further optimize performance in real-world operating environments.
Some new features include solid-state battery technology that replaces conventional lead-acid batteries and a larger 2.8MWh battery system paired with an 800HP Tier 4 engine. They also include increased horsepower from 3,200 to 3,800 HP and AC traction motors integrated into a DC motor frame while maintaining the same truck interface.
This initiative reflects strong cross-functional collaboration between CN’s mechanical, transportation, procurement, and sustainability teams as the Company continues to enhance the next generation of yard power for its North American network.
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