More GT38ACs for Indonesia
Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-Chief
PT Kereta Indonesia (PT KAI) has awarded a contract to Progress Rail, a Caterpillar Company, for 54 EMD® GT38AC freight locomotives for service in South Sumatra, Indonesia, expanding the national railway’s existing fleet. Progress Rail anticipates delivery beginning in 2025.
The new locomotives will join PT KAI’s fleet of 91 GT38ACs delivered since 2011. “The high tractive effort capability of these AC propulsion locomotives provides significant operational savings and greenhouse gas reductions for the railway’s operations on the Sumatra Island,” Progress Rail said. “The GT38AC is specifically designed for the unique environments in Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa and has reliably operated with biodiesel blends up to B35 in Indonesia. Features include a proven eight-cylinder EMD 710 engine and durable AC traction, along with the operator cab and carbody designed for improved visibility.”
“This collaboration between KAI and Progress Rail is one of our innovations to advance railways in Indonesia,” said KAI President Director Didiek Hartantyo. “With the addition of a fleet that has the latest technology, it is expected that KAI can increase its contribution to the need for reliable and environmentally friendly transportation of goods.”
“We are excited for this opportunity to once again work with PT KAI to deliver our GT series locomotives, which have demonstrated strong performance, reliability and efficiency,” commented Progress Rail Executive Vice President of Locomotive Jack Zhang. “We are committed to continuing our support of PT KAI with broad solutions to help them achieve their operational and emissions reduction targets and contribute to the country’s economic growth.”
