Wabtec Corp.’s MotivePower subsidiary delivered a prototype locomotive to Metrolinx, an agency of the Province of Ontario and the regional transportation authority for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) in Canada.

This is the first commuter locomotive delivered in North America certified to meet the latest Tier 4 emissions standards, as set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

MotivePower also signed a $97 million contract with Metrolinx to build an additional 16 Tier 4 locomotives that will be based on a similar platform and include AC propulsion. Delivery is expected to begin in 2017.

The prototype locomotive, originally built by MotivePower about five years ago, was repowered with new engines to meet the Tier 4 emission standards. The technology reduces diesel particulate emissions by about 85% and NOx emissions by about 75% compared to the locomotive’s original Tier 2 configuration.

The locomotive is powered by twin Cummins Tier 4 Locomotive certified QSK60 diesel engines that produce up to 5,400 horsepower for traction and auxiliary train power. The QSK60 meets the Tier 4 requirements using integrated Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) exhaust after-treatment technology, which removes NOx from the exhaust stream, enabling reduced emissions and improved fuel efficiency.

Wabtec Corp. is a global provider of technology-based products and services for rail and industrial markets. Through its subsidiaries, the company manufactures a range of products for locomotives, freight cars and passenger transit vehicles. The company also builds new switcher and commuter locomotives, and provides aftermarket services. The company has facilities located throughout the world.