Alstom PL42AC
| Industry | Rail transport equipment manufacturing |
|---|---|
| Founded | September 6, 1928 |
| Headquarters | Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine , France |
| Website | www |
The Alstom PL42AC is a diesel-electric locomotive with a four-axle B-B configuration, jointly developed by Alstom and GM-EMD. Produced exclusively for NJ Transit Rail Operations, a total of 33 units were built between 2003 and 2006 to serve commuter rail routes in New Jersey. Powered by an EMD 16-710G3B-T1 prime mover, it generates up to 4,200 hp at the alternator and 3,620 hp at the wheels when head-end power is active. Engineered to reach speeds of up to 160 km/h (100 mph), this locomotive provides strong tractive capabilities ideal for regional passenger transit.
Description
The PL42AC is a four-axle diesel-electric locomotive constructed by Alstom featuring an 16-710G3B prime mover specifically for New Jersey Transit. The initial two units were produced in 2003 at the Meinfesa facility located in Valencia, Spain. Subsequently, the other 31 locomotives were assembled at Alstom’s Hornell, New York plant from 2004 through early 2006. Delivering 4,200 hp (approximately 3.1 MW) for both traction and head-end power, its design shares similarities with the GE Genesis, both having been designed by industrial designer Cesar Vergara.
This model integrates advanced IGBT technology to provide precise traction control. It supplies 800 kilowatts of head-end power and utilizes the EPIC II braking system from WABCO, along with Wabtec’s E-7 wheel slide protection device that combines hardware and software to avoid wheel flat spots.
Equipped with an Intelligent Display Unit (IDU) based on technology from Bombardier Transportation, the PL42AC allows engineers and maintenance personnel to track performance metrics, retrieve fault codes, and perform diagnostics remotely. Its onboard computer oversees engine operations and protects components—for instance, it can automatically shut down the engine if oil levels fall below safe thresholds.
Future
In July 2020, NJ Transit revealed plans to phase out 23 of the older PL42AC locomotives by replacing them with additional ALP-45A dual-mode locomotives due to reliability concerns and failure to comply with updated EPA regulations. The remaining 10 units are scheduled for light refurbishment to prolong their operational lifespan.