Ferromex, Ferrosur order 34 SD70ACe locomotives from EMD

Ferrocarril Mexicano S.A. de C.V. has announced plans to purchase 19 additional Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD) SD70ACe locomotives, expanding its SD70ACe fleet to 116 units.

In addition, sister railroad Ferrosur S.A. de C.V. announced its first-ever EMD order, which calls for purchasing 15 SD70ACe locomotives featuring a special design for tunnel operation enhancements.

The orders will result in a combined 131 SD70ACes for the Grupo Mexico-owned railroads, with the locomotives to enter service in Mexico City, Mexico, by June 2015, Ferromex officials said in a press release. Both orders include an 11-year locomotive maintenance agreement.

Ferromex previously took delivery of 82 new SD70ACes in 2011 under two separate orders, and 15 more in 2006.

"The 97 SD70ACe locomotives we have received have achieved very high and consistent performance and fuel efficiency. The 34 new additions will be key to our plans for 2015 and beyond, where Ferromex will continue to grow at higher levels than the average of the North American railroad industry," said Ferromex/Ferrosur Chief Executive Officer Rogelio Vélez.

EMD introduced the 4,300-horsepower SD70ACe locomotive in 2005 for freight applications in North America and worldwide. The locomotives feature radial trucks, distributed power and EMD's Q-cab for increased operator comfort and safety.