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3/10/2026
Progress Rail, a Caterpillar Inc. subsidiary, has signed an agreement with Norfolk Southern Railway to modernize 96 EMD® SD70M-2 locomotives and transform them into next generation SD70ICC units equipped with AC traction technology.
With the upgraded design, three modernized SD70ICC units can now do the work of four legacy SD70M-2s, which allows NS to move the same tonnage with fewer locomotives, reduce fuel consumption and improve performance, Progress Rail and NS officials said in a press release.
Deliveries are anticipated to start in 2027 and be completed in 2029. A financial value of the contract was not disclosed.
Each SD70ICC modernization includes a remanufactured EMD 16-cylinder 710 engine rated at 4,300 horsepower, with updated control systems and Caterpillar's advanced diesel engine management. Together, the upgrades can reduce unplanned downtime and yield significant fuel savings depending on duty cycle, without the higher capital investment or lead times required for new locomotives, officials at both companies said.
“By upgrading to AC traction, we’re strengthening network resilience, improving fuel efficiency, and extending the life of our assets while giving our customers greater haulage capacity and the consistent service they need to support their own growth and sustainability goals," said Brian Barr, NS' VP of mechanical and chief mechanical officer.