Wabtec Accelerates Fleet Modernization with FDL Engine Upgrade and Next Generation Control Platform

Minneapolis – September 23, 2019: Today at Railway Interchange 2019, Wabtec Corporation (NYSE: WAB) announced two new offerings designed to modernize its global installed base of 23,000 locomotives. To maximize asset lifecycle value and reduce total cost of ownership for customers, Wabtec has developed a fuel-saving engine upgrade package, called “FDL Advantage,” for its FDL locomotive platform as well as a complete control system replacement. In addition to addressing industry imperatives for improved fuel efficiency and reliability, these solutions introduce next-generation data and software capabilities to position railroads for the future of transportation.

“As technology evolves at an increasingly rapid pace, we remain focused on bringing the latest innovations to our locomotives to improve their performance,” said Pascal Schweitzer, Group President, Freight Global Services for Wabtec. “With these specific product introductions, we’re advancing key fleet modernization priorities to help our customers get the most out of their existing assets, over their entire lifecycle.”

The FDL Advantage is an upgrade to the existing FDL engine that will provide significant fuel savings at the Tier 1+ emission level. It features improved air handling and a high-pressure common rail fuel system which offers improved injection control. These updates allow for improved tuning of the engine. In addition, other design elements have been incorporated to improve reliability. The FDL engine has been in production since the 1950’s and operates in heavy-haul applications throughout the world.

The Modular Control Architecture - Fleet Migration (MCA FM) is a next-generation controls technology that is applicable throughout Wabtec’s locomotive installed base. MCA FM provides a plug-and-play solution that leverages a common software foundation and is compatible with GoLINC™ hardware, Wabtec’s advanced onboard computing platform. This approach allows for streamlined fleet migration and facilitates a faster implementation speed for Wabtec customers through industry standard communication protocols. The technology also improves reliability and diagnostic capabilities through better access to data.

“Fleet modernization provides a strategic opportunity to transform existing assets and extend their service life,” adds Schweitzer. “We’re proud to launch the FDL Advantage and MCA FM over the next year as we continue to focus on the most critical needs of our customers.”   

Wabtec’s modernization program updates aging locomotives — some more than 20-years-old — with customized solutions that range from simple changes, including control system upgrades, to complex restorations, such as the comprehensive transformation of an aged DC locomotive into an AC locomotive outfitted with state-of-the-art digital technology.

Wabtec’s customers have experienced substantial outcomes from the program, including up to 15 percent improved fuel efficiency, 40 percent increase in reliability and 50 percent increase in haulage ability. Wabtec has completed over 2,500 locomotive modernizations for 37 customers in 24 countries.

About Wabtec

Wabtec Corporation is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions and value-added services for freight and transit rail. Drawing on nearly four centuries of collective experience across Wabtec, GE Transportation and Faiveley Transport, the company has unmatched digital expertise, technological innovation, and world-class manufacturing and services, enabling the digital-rail-and-transit ecosystems. Wabtec is focused on performance that drives progress, creating transportation solutions that move and improve the world. The freight portfolio features a comprehensive line of locomotives, software applications and a broad selection of mission-critical controls systems, including Positive Train Control (PTC). The transit portfolio provides highly-engineered systems and services to virtually every major rail transit system around the world, supplying an integrated series of components for buses and all train-related market segments that deliver safety, efficiency and passenger comfort. Along with its industry-leading portfolio of products and solutions for the rail and transit industries, Wabtec is a leader in mining, marine and industrial solutions. Wabtec has approximately 27,000 employees in facilities throughout the world. Visit the company’s new website at: www.WabtecCorp.com.