The ES44AC (Evolution Series, 4400 HP, AC traction) replaces the AC4400CW model in GE's range. These locomotives have been ordered by several American railroads and Canadian Pacific Railway. The Evolution Series locomotives are visually similar to the AC4400CW, although small differences are evident. The most significant differences are in the radiator section at the rear of the locomotive. The "wings" at the end of the carbody are larger, as is the entire radiator of the locomotive. As with the AC6000CW the radiators project beyond the end of the hood, and unlike any previous GE locomotive the grills under the radiator are at two different angles. The increase in radiator size is due to the necessity of greater cooling capacity in the locomotive in order to reduce emissions. The other major difference between the Evolution Series locomotives and older models are the vents below the radiators, which are larger than those on previous GE locomotives - Date/Photographer unknown.

6 December 2011

Canadian Pacific Refreshes Locomotive Fleet to Drive Service Reliability and Reduce Costs

Calgary Alberta - Canadian Pacific today announced that 61 new high horse power GE Evolution (EVO) Series AC locomotives have been brought into service and that the railway has initiated a program to modernize its low and medium horsepower yard locomotives.
 
The new EVO locomotives, which are currently in transcontinental service on priority series trains, will increase capacity, enhance service reliability, further the company's long train strategy, reduce emissions, and contribute to the company's 1-2 percent annual fuel efficiency improvement target.
 
CP also expects delivery of an additional 30 EVO locomotives in the first quarter of 2012.
 
Through Progress Rail Services' Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD) subsidiary, CP will also begin to modernize a portion of its low and medium horsepower locomotive fleet. The remanufacture of these locomotives, which will begin in 2012 and take place over the next several years, supports yard fluidity and yard dwell reduction goals, reduces fuel consumption and ongoing maintenance costs.
 
Refreshing its locomotive fleet to reduce costs, capture efficiencies, and create capacity for growth is a key element in CP's plan to position the franchise to achieve an annual operating ratio in the low 70s in the next three to four years.