MotivePower on track

MotivePower subsidiary has signed contracts to build MPXpress commuter locomotives for the

(UTA) and

(SCRRA). The contract is part of a multi-city, commuter agency procurement.

Under the contracts, 11 locomotives are scheduled for delivery to UTA in 2007, with 11 more to be delivered to SCRRA into 2008, for a combined value of about $60 million.

The order includes options for an additional 45 units for an additional $120 million, to be exercised by various agencies within the next five years, for a total potential value of about $180 million. The multi-agency procurement includes the UTA, SCRRA, Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority of Boston and Northstar Commuter Rail Project of Minneapolis.

The MPXpress locomotives will be built at MotivePower's Boise, Idaho facility, with work scheduled to begin on the base order this year. The locomotives will contain a number of components produced by other Wabtec subsidiaries, including the microprocessor control system, braking equipment, brake shoes and radiators.

According to a statement, the locomotives will have significant technological improvements compared to the current equipment used by these transit authorities, including higher-horsepower engines to increase acceleration, greater fuel efficiency, reduced emissions and microprocessor controls. They will also meet new crashworthiness and safety standards set by the American Public Transportation Association.