On Tuesday 17 June, the Evolution "Evo" Locomotive (C94) was launched at UGL's Broadmeadow site, where it was manufactured.
The Evo Locomotive is Australia's most fuel-efficient, long-haul freight locomotive, Australian made, for Australian conditions.
It is a co-original equipment manufacturer design between UGL and Wabtec Corporation and delivered for Pacific National as part of their efforts to decarbonise their locomotive fleets.
"UGL has been in partnership with Wabtec (formerly GE Transportation) for over 60 years," Stuart Inglis, General Manager of UGL's manufacturing and maintenance business, said.
"UGL has incorporated Wabtec’s technology into our Australian Made locomotive design. We have delivered for Pacific National a locomotive that is sustainable and supports their efforts to decarbonise.
Celebrating manufacturing in Newcastle with our supply chain
For over 125 years, UGL has manufactured in Newcastle and the Hunter.
Started by Alfred Goninan in 1899, UGL's first major contract was delivering 100 (8 ton) coal wagons to the Rhondda Colliery in the Hunter.
"Manufacturing rolling stock that moves freight is part of our identity," Stuart said.
"And moreover, it's at the heart of Newcastle and the Hunter."
The day saw over 400 people from UGL's supply chain, workforce, partners, and friends across the rail sector come together and celebrate this occasion.
"We could only have delivered the Evo together with our workforce and supply chain," Stuart said.
"We believe manufacturing has a bright future in Australia, especially as governments and the private sector look at supply chain resilience across the nation and diversifying Australia's sovereign capability," Stuart concluded.
Distinguished guests on the day included:
- Tim Crakanthorp MP, State Member for Newcastle who represented the Premier of NSW
- Peter Thomas, Senior Vice President of the Wabtec Corporation
- Brett Grehan, CEO of Pacific National
- Jacqui Walters, National Rail Manufacturing Advocate
- Danny Broad, Chair of TrackSAFE Foundation
- Lucio Di Bartolomeo, Chair of the Australasian Railway Association, and
- Ivan Waterfield, CEO of HunterNet.