PHL, Progress Rail to test electric locomotive at LA, Long Beach ports

Progress Rail will supply its new EMD^® Joule battery electric locomotive for a demonstration project operating in the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach under a new agreement with Pacific Harbor Line (PHL).

The new six-axle locomotive features the latest lithium-ion battery technology and battery management system, alongside AC traction and state-of-the-art electronics, Progress Rail officials said in a press release.

The demonstration fits the railroad's efforts to apply new, low-emission technology, PHL officials said.

"The Joule is the first battery electric switcher locomotive designed by a major locomotive supplier for North America that appears robust enough for the demanding PHL environment," said PHL President Otis Cliatt II. "What Progress Rail and PHL will learn from this demonstration will hopefully advance the prospects for zero emission locomotive solution in the San Pedro Bay ports."

Zero-emission cargo movement is the future of port operations, said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero.