Marhowra plant operational from 4Q
GE Transportation (NYSE:GE) said the Indian Railways has confirmed its acceptance of GE’s 4,500-horsepower diesel-electric Evolution Series prototype locomotive.
This critical milestone was achieved following the successful completion of rigorous testing on Indian Railways’ tracks following the locomotive handover in February 2018, said GE at InnoTrans 2018 being held in Berlin 18-20 Sept 2018.
“The acceptance of these locomotives is a testament to GE’s engineering depth and understanding of the customer requirements,” said Nalin Jain, President and CEO-APAC, GE Transportation.
“This is a major step towards fulfilling our contract with Indian Railways. Together we will help modernize Indian Railways’ fleet, significantly upgrade India’s rail infrastructure and provide critical support for India’s growing economy,” Jain said.
A standard practice, the acceptance of the 4500hp locomotives came after months of reviewing key design aspects, documentation and a thorough validation around various parameters in the U.S. and India. The locomotives also completed additional reviews, including oscillation trials and rating and performance tests.
The new units feature an Evolution Series engine and an electronic fuel-injection system for improved fuel efficiency, as well as compliance with international emission standard UIC1. The individual axle-control AC propulsion technology will improve hauling capability and decrease life-cycle cost. The locomotives also are digitally enabled for predictive analytics to increase reliability and availability.
The locomotives are part of a US$2.5 billion agreement signed in 2015 in support of the Indian Government’s Public Private Partnership ‘Make in India’ program. The deal included an order for 1,000 locomotives, as well as the establishment of a new GE Transportation factory and maintenance sheds in India.
The project is on track and has achieved several key milestones. Currently, there are 45 locomotives in India that are ready for inspection and acceptance by Indian Railways.
GE’s state-of-the-art Roza Maintenance Shed in the state of Uttar Pradesh, is ready for operations and the construction of the factory in Marhowra, Bihar, is in advanced stages towards completion.
Operations will begin in the fourth quarter. Once fully operational, all locomotives built in Marhowra under the agreement will have 70% localized content.
Both Marhowra and Roza will set new standards in Indian Railways for manufacturing, maintenance and monitoring of diesel locomotives, as well as spark job creation and skills development across the region.
“We are aligned with the Government of India’s vision to modernize and ‘Make in India’,” said Jain. “Together, we are making tremendous progress on the vision and continuing to invest in the region.” fiinews.com
