According to RRPictureArchives.net, CSX’s new GEVO’s numbered in the 700’s are “ES44AC-H’s”, the same (probably un-official) model name given to the GE Hybrid prototype locomotive 2010. If these are hybrid engines, then I’m really surprised as I didn’t have any idea preproduction units were already starting to be released. This must be a mistake, right ??
The H in the model designation stands for “heavy”, not “hybrid”, and is a CSX designation. This series is ballasted heavier than standard ES44AC’s.
Hmm, that’s interesting.
Heavier simply for better adhesion, correct? Does a heavier loco ride any better? What about fuel economy?
Yes I think for traction purposes, not so sure about any other benefits. I also believe CSX is using these locos primarily on coal trains. Jamie
The units’ CSXT class is ES44AH. The “H” doesn’t stand for “heavy”. It stands for “high” and signifies that the units have “HTE” (i.e. high tractive effort) adhesion-management software.
I can’t wait to see a hybrid diesel locomotive particularly where and how many batteries it will have. If an auto will require a $10,000-12,000 battery replacement when they wear out imagine what a diesel loco will require. It would pobably be a three unit locomotive with two of the units being battery carriers.
I’ll admit that I don’t know about the costs of replacing the batteries in a hybrid auto but I did read that there are lots of Toyota Prius cabs still going strong at 200K miles in Mexico City with only slight battery loss. I think most folks won’t have to worry too much about battery replacement if that is a trend.