Union Pacific Railroad Makes Largest Investment in Wabtec's FLXdrive Battery-Electric Locomotive

Rhea-AI Summary

On January 28, 2022, Union Pacific Railroad (UNP) announced its purchase of 10 FLXdrive battery-electric locomotives from Wabtec Corporation (WAB). This $20 million investment is the largest of its kind by a North American railroad, aiming to enhance rail yard infrastructure and significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions. The locomotives will provide zero-emission operations and reduce carbon output by 4,000 tons annually. Union Pacific plans to reduce its GHG emissions by 26% by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050, showcasing its commitment to environmental sustainability.

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• Largest investment in battery technology for North American railroads.
• Purchase of 10 FLXdrive locomotives will reduce GHG emissions by 4,000 tons annually.
• Union Pacific targets a 26% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 2030.

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• None.

OMAHA, Neb., Jan. 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Union Pacific Railroad (NYSE: UNP) today announced the purchase of 10 FLXdrive battery-electric locomotives from Wabtec Corporation (NYSE: WAB). The order, which marks the largest investment in battery technology by a North American railroad, will upgrade Union Pacific's rail yard infrastructure and support its commitment to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"As an industry leader, Union Pacific is pioneering a major application of battery power in its rail yards," said Rafael Santana, President and CEO for Wabtec. "Battery power is an ideal solution to reduce the environmental impact and costs of yard operations. Using the FLXdrive in the rail yard can significantly improve local air quality, as well as reduce noise by up to 70% for neighboring communities." 

The approximately 2.5-MWh locomotives are each powered solely by 7,000 battery cells, providing Union Pacific a zero-emission solution for its yard operations. The 10 FLXdrives will enable the railroad to eliminate 4,000 tons of carbon annually from its rail yards, the equivalent of removing 800 cars from the highway. The new locomotives will be manufactured in the United States with the first units being delivered to Union Pacific in late 2023.

"Railroads are already the leader in low emissions ground transportation, and we believe battery-electric locomotives are the next step in our journey to eventually reach net zero," said Lance Fritz, Chairman, President and CEO of Union Pacific. "This first phase of testing will further enhance the technology, and, ultimately, benefit the entire industry."

Union Pacific published its first comprehensive Climate Action Plan in December 2021, outlining its efforts to significantly reduce emissions within its operations. As part of that commitment, Union Pacific will reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 26% by 2030 and achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

ABOUT UNION PACIFIC
Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at www.up.com.

www.up.com 

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www.twitter.com/unionpacific

ABOUT WABTEC
Wabtec Corporation (NYSE: WAB) is focused on creating transportation solutions that move and improve the world. The company is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions and value-added services for the freight and transit rail industries, as well as the mining, marine and industrial markets. Wabtec has been a leader in the rail industry for over 150 years and has a vision to achieve a zero-emission rail system in the U.S. and worldwide. The company has approximately 27,000 employees located at facilities in 50 countries throughout the world. Visit Wabtec's website at: www.wabteccorp.com.

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SOURCE Union Pacific Railroad

FAQ

What is Union Pacific's recent investment in Wabtec's FLXdrive locomotives?

Union Pacific announced a $20 million purchase of 10 FLXdrive battery-electric locomotives from Wabtec, marking the largest investment in battery technology by a North American railroad.

How much CO2 will Union Pacific's new locomotives eliminate?

The new locomotives will enable Union Pacific to eliminate 4,000 tons of carbon emissions annually, equivalent to removing 800 cars from the highway.

What are Union Pacific's greenhouse gas emission reduction targets?

Union Pacific aims to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 26% by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

When will Union Pacific's FLXdrive locomotives be delivered?

The first units of the FLXdrive locomotives are scheduled for delivery in late 2023.