New Siemens Charger locomotives will begin passenger service on Metro-North Railroad’s Hudson Line starting Monday, September 22, coinciding with the start of Climate Week NYC. The announcement was made by Governor Kathy Hochul, who emphasized the environmental and operational benefits of these new trains.
“Metro North is charging into the future with faster, greener, and more reliable locomotives,” Governor Hochul said. “There is no better way to kick off climate week than by further enhancing the emissions-reducing power of mass transit. I will always be a champion for New York’s commuters, and by modernizing our Metro-North fleet, tens of thousands of riders every single day will have a smoother, faster ride.”
The new 4,200-horsepower locomotives are designed to reduce airborne pollutants by 85 percent compared to the current fleet and deliver 1,000 more horsepower. According to MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber: “Transit is already the antidote to climate change, and it’s only getting cleaner and greener as we replace Metro-North’s aging diesel fleet with top-of-the-line diesel-electric locomotives. These are just the first of many new trains to come as part of the MTA Capital Plan’s $11 billion investment in new rolling stock.”
Unlike their predecessors—the GE P32s—which operate under electric power only in tunnels leading into Grand Central Terminal for four miles, these new dual-mode locomotives can run in electric mode across all 102 miles of Metro-North’s third rail territory. This includes routes extending to Croton-Harmon on the Hudson Line, Southeast on the Harlem Line, and Pelham on the New Haven Line. The trains meet Tier IV U.S. Environmental Protection Agency vehicle emission standards.
Enhanced reliability comes from advanced monitoring and diagnostic systems that allow maintenance crews to identify issues quickly.
Metro-North Railroad President Justin Vonashek stated: “Metro-North couldn’t be more excited to bring these powerful, reliable, and green locomotives to our railroad. With these on time, on budget, and American made locomotives, we are making a significant, long-term investment in the service we provide. These locomotives are key to our transition to a faster and cleaner fleet in the coming years. Like everything we do at Metro-North, this is all possible thanks to the hard work of our employees.”
Tobias Bauer, President of Rolling Stock Siemens Mobility North America said: “Today marks a proud milestone for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Metro North Railroad, Siemens Mobility, and for rail innovation in America. The Charger locomotives entering revenue service are more than just trains; they represent our shared commitment to modern and reliable transportation for millions of passengers. Built right here in the U.S., these locomotives combine cutting-edge technology with proven performance, and we’re honored to celebrate this moment alongside our partners at the MTA at Grand Central Terminal.”
The order for 27 Dual Mode Charger SC42-DM locomotives was placed with Siemens Mobility in 2021. They are being manufactured at Siemens’ Sacramento facility with deliveries scheduled through 2027.
Funding for this purchase came from both state capital plans (2015-19 and 2020-24) as well as support from the Federal Transit Administration.
Several elected officials commented on what they described as a major improvement for regional transportation:
Representative Pat Ryan said: “This upgrade to Metro-North’s rolling stock is a transformative investment in cleaner air and more reliable service for Hudson Valley commuters and visitors. That’s a win for Hudson Valley families and that’s a win for the environment. I’ll always fight for investments that improve the rider experience and protect our precious environment.”
State Senator Peter Harckham added: “Metro-North’s new hybrid locomotives are good news because they replace engines that are more than 30 years old…The new locomotives…are also a step in the right direction in climate benefits…”
State Senator Rob Rolison noted: “I congratulate Metro-North Railroad on the introduction of the new Siemens Charger trains…This upgrade not only improves the Hudson Line experience for daily commuters but also strengthens the connection between the Hudson Valley and New York metropolitan area.”
Assemblymember Anil Beephan stated: “Metro North’s commitment to cleaner and more reliable service is great news for Dutchess County…These new locomotives equipped with modern monitoring systems are an important step that will help reduce delays while keeping service dependable…”
Assemblymember Dana Levenberg remarked: “I’m so pleased to see these state-of-the-art new locomotives being put into service…These new trains will further reduce emissions by using electricity during more of their trips…”
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins commented: “Investing in clean, reliable transportation is an investment in our communities…These new Siemens Charger locomotives will not only improve service…but will also help reduce emissions…”
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said: “I’m grateful MTA has made this investment in new…energy efficient equipment…Dutchess County is excited to be primary beneficiary…The new engines…will reduce fuel consumption and most importantly…significantly reduce air pollution.”
