Freight

FreightWaves SONAR: Railroads Pin Hopes on Auto Manufacturing as U.S. Carloads Sustain Record Decline

The Class I railroads are closely watching the restart of North American automotive production, hoping that the slow ramp-up will not only grow motor vehicle volumes but also improve demand for supplies such as steel and plastics, according to executives at recent investor conferences. However, a key unknown variable is whether consumer demand will lift volumes for automobiles and other goods, executives said.

NOPB Adds 8 Lower-Emission Locomotives

The New Orleans Public Belt Railroad (NOPB) upgraded its locomotive fleet with the arrival of eight rebuilt units in an effort to replace aging equipment, improve efficiency and lower overall emissions. Recognizable by their bright blue color, the new locomotives aim to provide reliable service and support the Class III railroad’s commitment to integrating more sustainable business and operational practices.

Does Rebuilding Locomotives Beat Buying New?

Ever check out the list prices of brand-new main line diesel-electric locomotives? They are expensive, about $3 million each. Are you mesmerized by the horsepower quoted? Nah! You want tractive effort. Hauling heavy, long freight trains is the North American business model. You need to purchase tractive effort.

FreightWaves SONAR: Container-Import Roller Coaster: Down, Up, Down … Up?

U.S. container imports are on a wild ride. They plunged in March after the initial coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, China. They bounced back in April when delayed bookings were loaded after China came back online. Beginning in May, they sank again as container carriers “blanked” (canceled) sailings. Now, it looks like there could be at least some momentum in the positive direction.

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