CN’s first medium-horsepower hybrid locomotive has entered service. Built by KLW (Knoxville Locomotive Works) Q19-2.4GH No. 7100 first operated in Western Canada in March 2025.
7100 uses the platform of former BNSF 1259, built in 2007 by NRE as a 3GS21B. BNSF acquired 72 examples; NRE built more than 150 in total. The prime mover used in the 3GS21B was a Cummins QSK19. Three were used in the NRE unit, while a single QSK19 in the KLW Q19-2.4G and it is expected to remain in that configuration.
As important as a prime-mover is in a diese- electric locomotive, 7100 is a hybrid whose foundation is its battery packs. Housed in the center of the locomotive is a module with a new lithium-ion battery pack and energy storage system, complete with computer and energy management systems. The goal is a 50% reduction in fuel consumption.
7100 has been sent to the Toronto region for duty out of CN’s Kitchener, Ontario terminal. With varied operational needs including 1% grades, heavy trains at main line speeds along with slow branch line and yard switching operations, short of mountain railroading the Kitchener Terminal will be true test of 710o’s capabilities.
