The ALC-42 diesel-electric locomotives, built by Siemens Mobility, are the backbone of Amtrak’s long-distance service. These 125 locomotives replace Amtrak’s 1990s-era engines with a high-powered fleet that is cleaner, faster and more efficient. STV supported Amtrak with engineering review, testing oversight, and procurement support for this transformative program.
What was the goal of the ALC-42 Locomotive program?
Amtrak needed to replace an aging locomotive fleet with units capable of reducing emissions to meet federal standards, lowering fuel consumption and supporting long-distance trains across the U.S.
What solutions did STV provide?
STV assisted Amtrak with technical reviews, quality assurance and program management to verify that the locomotives met performance, safety and environmental targets.
How does this program improve rail service?
The ALC-42 achieves a top speed of 125 mph while reducing nitrogen oxide emissions by 89% and particulate matter by 95%, . For passengers, this means more reliable, faster and sustainable service.
What challenges were overcome?
The team needed locomotives capable of hauling heavier, longer trains thousands of miles per trip. STV worked with Amtrak to evaluate design solutions and testing protocols to validate these capabilities.
Facts & Figures
- 125 total locomotives (75 in base order, 50 as option order); first units entered service in 2021
- Built by Siemens Mobility in Sacramento, California
- 125 mph top speed capability
- Reduces NOx emissions by 89% and particulate matter by 95%
- Developed specifically for Amtrak’s long-distance routes like the Empire Builder, Coast Starlight, Auto Train and more
