ProgressRail

THE 1940s

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1940

The “FT 103” also known as “ The diesel that did it” was responsible for retiring steam locomotives once and for all. The locomotive that convinced America's railroads that the diesel-electric freight locomotive, rather than the steam engine, was the future.

FT 103 was retired in 1961 in Spencer, North Carolina, and donated by the Southern to the National Museum of Transport in St. Louis.

1941

The world’s first production freight diesel locomotive was delivered to the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe railroad.

The EMD F-units were designed for freight service and were the most successful mainline diesel locomotive in North America leading to the dieselization of the industry.

The Santa Fe railroad promoted travel thru Santa Fe territory. The Santa Fe was the first railroad to use these Diesel-Electric locomotives in mainline, passenger, and switching service.

EMD’s dedicated service engineer’s are seen with a new Santa Fe freight locomotive.

1942

The Electro-Motive 16-184A engines were built in La Grange, Illinois, and the first engine started test runs on 11 October 1941. The Navy accepted the first 16-184A engine on 5 February 1942.

Two pancake engines were installed in each of the 253 110-foot (33.5 m) submarine chasers built during World War II. 16-184A engines were noted for their reliable operation and good service life.

1944

From the 10th anniversary of the Pioneer Zephyr. Longest travelled self-propelled land vehicle in the world with an average speed of 66mph.

1945

1946

EMD locomotive gracing a Mexican postage stamp. EMD locomotives are now in use in 57 countries outside the US

1947 - 25th anniversary of EMD. At the time of the anniversary, a point the company made was “History must be only a foundation for the future.” It was highlighted that Electro-Motive had the facilities, experience, imagination and inspiration to be leaders in the field.

1947 EMD 25th Anniversary

EMD® 25th Anniversary 1947

1948

R. Purves, chairman and managing director of The Clyde Engineering Co. in Australia, and C.R. Osborn, vice president of GM and general manager of EMD, signalizing the signing of agreement. It will manufacture diesel locomotives at its works in Granville, New South Wales. Which benefits in low price and speedy delivery.

1949

The new General Motors Train of Tomorrow is in Springfield for public inspection. Approximately 140 guests of GM rode the train. GM received a special copy of a joint House-senate resolution commending the “Train of Tomorrow.” Regional director of PR for GM Osborn and state Sen. A.J. Bidwell made the presentation.