GE Transportation has unveiled its first GE Evolution Series locomotive destined for Ukrainian Railways and built under a $1bn agreement signed in February this year.
The agreement involves the delivery to Ukrainian Railways of 30 TE33A locomotives, as well as additional locomotive kits and maintenance services.
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Ukrainian Railways Management Board acting chairman Yevgen Kravtsov said: “This locomotive represents the next step in Ukraine’s long working relationship with GE.
“Our partnership will not only upgrade our fleet but modernise Ukraine’s transportation infrastructure and further cement our country’s position as a key transit hub between Europe and Asia and ensure Ukraine’s export potential.”
To be developed in the US, all the locomotives will be transferred to Ukraine for final assembly and other associated works.
GE Transportation Equipment vice-president Yuvbir Singh said: “Our partnership will transform Ukraine’s rail network and foster growth for our customer and the country.
“This locomotive is the ideal solution for Ukrainian Railways to achieve those goals in a competitive market.”
Equipped with a 12-cylinder, 4,500hp Evolution Series engine, the TE33A locomotive is designed to provide high power output, additional flexibility and reduce lifecycle costs.
The introduction of these vehicles is also expected to significantly reduce harmful emissions and lower fuel costs.
Once they are inducted into service, the locomotives are expected to be used to haul bulk agricultural goods and metals products to the market.
