INNOVATION 05302025

Union Pacific on Track to Complete First-of-its-Kind Hybrid Locomotive Pilot

UP's first-of-kind Hybrid Locomotive | O

The first of Union Pacific’s cutting-edge hybrid-battery electric locomotives – built in partnership with ZTR, a leading rail technology company – is on track to complete its pilot in 2026.

Union Pacific and ZTR recently wrapped up testing and proof of concept at the railroad’s Jenks Locomotive Shop in North Little Rock, Arkansas. The next step of the pilot will be to test the locomotive in a working rail yard.

Union Pacific and ZTR introduced these hybrid switch locomotives – the first of their kind within North America’s freight rail industry – in 2024. The locomotives can run on a traditional diesel engine or stored battery power, with the battery recharging during engine operation. Depending on mode of operation, the hybrid switchers are expected to consume as much as 80% less fuel.

The next of the remaining five hybrid locomotives is expected to be ready for testing next year. 

Union Pacific Testing First Hybrid Battery-Electric Locomotive

The first of its kind within North America’s freight rail industry, the prototype has the capacity to run on both diesel and batteries – much like today’s plug-in hybrid cars.

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