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Massachusetts Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray recently joined officials from the state Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) for an inaugural ride aboard a new commuter-rail locomotive.

The diesel-electric locomotive is one of two purchased from the Utah Transit Authority at a cost of $7 million, and marks the first time in more than 20 years that MBTA’s commuter-rail fleet will feature new locomotives.

In addition, another 20 new locomotives, to be purchased from MotivePower Inc. at a cost of $114 million, will be brought into service in 2013 to replace the 20 oldest and least reliable units in the fleet, MBTA officials said in a prepared statement. MassDOT’s board approved the purchase in June 2010.

MBTA estimates it will save about $78,000 annually per new locomotive, which are designed to consume less fuel and emit lower levels of nitrogen oxide and hydrocarbons.

MBTA's fleet includes 410 coaches that range in age from seven to 29 years.