Battery Powered Locomotives

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Project programmed before 2024; Not evaluated by these metrics.

Project Description

This project will fund the conversion of three diesel locomotives to zero-emission battery power. The battery powered locomotives will be fully compatible with Metra's existing fleet and will be capable of operating on any Metra line that uses diesel-hauled trains. The batteries will provide motive power as well as onboard systems such as lighting, intercoms, and HVAC. Metra estimates that replacing one old diesel locomotive with a zero-emission locomotive will reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by more than 30 tons per year. This project will significantly reduce emissions, improve local air quality, greatly reduce operational costs, and lower maintenance costs.