Powering ‘Progress’ through locomotive modernization

Norfolk Southern is accelerating its fleet transformation with a modernization initiative that strengthens operations, supports sustainable shipping, and deepens supplier partnerships. In collaboration with Progress Rail — a Caterpillar company and one of the world’s leading providers of rail solutions — 96 DC-traction NS locomotives will be upgraded to AC.

Zooming in: Deliveries will start in 2027 and will be completed in 2029. Each upgrade from Progress Rail will feature:

• Individual axle control for superior traction.
• Caterpillar Advanced Diesel Engine Management (ADEM®) for improved performance.
• Remanufactured 16‑cylinder EMD 710 engines producing 4,300 horsepower.

Why it matters: The SD70ICC Tier 2+ AC traction conversions from EMD® SD70M-2 DC deliver:

• Stronger productivity: Fewer engines needed to pull a train.
• Reliability gains: The upgrades improve reliability by 40% and increase haulage capacity by 55%.
• Each conversion extends a locomotive’s life by at least 20 years, with significant savings compared to the cost of buying new.
• Fuel savings: The conversions are 3% more fuel efficient.

Zooming out: Norfolk Southern’s modernization roadmap includes new locomotives, an industry-leading DC-to-AC program and a push to reduce engine models from 13 to four over the next decade. Fewer models mean:

• Lower maintenance costs.
• Simplified training and tooling.
• Greater operational consistency.

Already making a difference: In 2025, Team NS led the industry in Fly Rate, a key measure of mechanical performance, achieving a rate of 1.14, well below the industry benchmark. That reliability ensures our customers’ freight keeps moving.

Today, nearly 90% of the company’s in service road fleet locomotives are AC traction, and the entire fleet uses energy management software, making NS the only railroad using the fuel efficiency technology across its entire fleet.

What they’re saying:

“By modernizing existing units, Norfolk Southern is taking a significant step toward a more efficient future. Our SD70ICC conversions deliver the performance and reliability railroads need while helping them meet their sustainability goals. This order underscores Progress Rail’s commitment to providing innovative solutions that help customers strengthen performance across their network.” — Jack Zhang, Progress Rail, Locomotive EVP

“These conversions are a tangible example of how we’re modernizing our fleet to drive safe, reliable, and efficient operations for the long term. By upgrading to AC traction, we’re strengthening network resilience, improving fuel efficiency, and extending the life of our assets — while giving our customers greater haulage capacity and the consistent service they need to support their own growth and sustainability goals." — Brian Barr, Norfolk Southern, VP, Mechanical and Chief Mechanical Officer

Chad Previch leads external communications for Norfolk Southern in the areas of Sustainability, Community Impact, and Technology. He also manages messaging related to the company’s Government Relations and Investor Relations priorities. He joined NS in 2025, bringing nearly 20 years of PR and corporate communications experience.