And this time it's by gettin' inta China! Yep. China!
August 21, 2008
GE power en route to ChinaIn October 2005, GE Transportation signed a $450 million contract with the Chinese Ministry of Railways (MOR) for 300 6,000-hp Evolution® Series CMLs (China Mainline Locomotives). The first of two fully assembled pilot locomotives, CML 50001, is on its way to Tianjin Port in Tianjin, China, and is expected to arrive on Aug. 30. After being transferred to the Tanggu Depot for inspection, CML 50001 will make its way to Beijing.
The CML series is configured a bit differently than GEs North American Evolution Series locomotive. With a peak output of 6,250 hp, the locomotive produces about 40% more power (compared to 4,400 hp) and weighs 30% less than its western cousin. The lighter weight design increases the eco-friendly properties of the locomotive, GE says. The Ecomagination-certified GEVO 16-cylinder engine generates 84% fewer emissions and increases fuel efficiency by 3-5%, compared to a non-Evolution Series locomotive.
The balance of the CML order will be assembled in China at Qishuyan Locomotive and Rolling Stock Works (QSY) in Changzhou, using kits manufactured in Erie. Kits began shipping on May 18, 2008; delivery is expected to be completed by year-end 2009. QSY is to begin assembling locomotives in October, with all 300 CMLs delivered by June 2010. GE established three onsite teams in Changzhou, Chengdu, and Zhuzhou consisting of 20 local Chinese manufacturing and quality engineers to provide technical support for assembling the 298 kits.
The MOR sought a product that would significantly improve hauling capability and running speed on Chinas main lines, while at the same time reducing emissions to meet increasingly rigorous Chinese environmental requirements, said GE Transportation China President Tim Schweikert. The locomotive they will receive will meet and exceed those requirements. He noted that GE is three months ahead of the original contract schedule.
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Hmm. That address doesnt look right. It looks like the link pointing here was faulty.
