Progress Rail Delivers EMD SD70ACe-Tier 4 Locomotives to Lake State Railway, Advancing Fleet Modernization and Operational Performance

April 8, 2026

ALBERTVILLE, Ala. – Progress Rail, a Caterpillar company, has delivered four EMD^® SD70ACe‑Tier 4 locomotives to Lake State Railway Company (LSRC), supporting the short-line railroad’s long-term fleet modernization strategy with improved efficiency and reliability.

With the arrival of these units, LSRC has retired five legacy locomotives that averaged 40 years old, significantly reducing emissions (U.S. EPA regulated) and modernizing its fleet with Tier 4 technology. The SD70ACe‑T4 platform is designed to improve productivity, helping railroads move more freight with fewer locomotives. Supported by PR Uptime IQ™, operators gain enhanced visibility, predictive insight, and data‑driven maintenance planning to keep locomotives running longer, smarter, and more reliably.

“Over my career, I have managed several locomotive fleet upgrade projects focused on improving emissions, and we are very satisfied with the performance of the EMD Tier 4 product,” commented Roger Fuehring, chief mechanical officer for LSRC. “We especially value the support Progress Rail has offered after the sale, which is critical given how much more advanced these locomotives are compared to the older generation units.”

The SD70ACe-T4 delivers more fuel-efficient performance while helping railroads lower operating and maintenance costs. The unit is built for demanding freight service, combining strong hauling capability, a quieter and more comfortable cab, and long-term reliability to support higher fleet uptime. Backed by Progress Rail’s integrated service model – including field engineering, parts availability, analytics‑driven maintenance, digital condition monitoring, and quality assurance – customers can maximize asset availability and lifecycle value, with long‑term support enabled by tools like Uptime IQ.

“Lake State’s decision to modernize its fleet with the SD70ACe-T4, paired with Uptime IQ, illustrates a clear focus on operational capability and value,” said Jack Zhang, executive vice president of locomotive at Progress Rail. “Delivering the units ahead of schedule reflects our customer‑focused approach and commitment to execution.”

The program supports LSRC’s broader sustainability initiatives, which include idle‑reduction technologies, a comprehensive recycling program, waste‑oil heating at its locomotive facility, and participation in the U.S. EPA SmartWay program. These efforts – combined with its distinction as the first short line operating new, high-horsepower Tier 4 units – contributed to LSRC being named the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) 2026 Green Spark Award recipient, to be presented this month in Minneapolis, Minn.

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About Progress Rail 

Progress Rail is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. and a leading provider of rolling stock, infrastructure and advanced technologies for global rail customers. The company delivers EMD^® locomotives and engines, trackwork, signaling, fasteners, and comprehensive locomotive and freight car services, along with aftermarket parts and recycling. Its technology portfolio includes data analytics, automation, connected assets, predictive maintenance and yard optimization tools. With support from Caterpillar and a network of nearly 150 locations worldwide, Progress Rail delivers innovative, reliable solutions to the rail industry. Learn more at progressrail.com.

Media Contact  
Progress Rail Corporate Communications  
Amy Everett: aeverett@progressrail.com, +1 (256) 505-6749