Feb. 10, 2026
SAO PAULO – VLI, a Brazilian logistics solutions company, and Progress Rail, a Caterpillar company, celebrated the delivery of eight new EMD SD70ACe-BB locomotives that will enhance freight operations along the Centro-Atlântica Railway. The event was attended by the vice president of Brazil, executives from VLI and Progress Rail, and local officials, underscoring the importance of continued investment in Brazil’s rail infrastructure.
The new locomotives incorporate advanced AC traction systems, improved adhesion control, and optimized fuel efficiency – features designed to help reduce lifecycle costs. They were designed for durability and performance across Brazil’s demanding freight corridors.
“VLI transports cargo from the main sectors that drive the Brazilian economy, such as agribusiness, civil construction and industry,” said Fábio Marchiori, CEO of VLI. “With new and modern locomotives, we also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reinforcing our role in building a low-carbon and more sustainable logistics network for the country.”
In addition to the locomotive acquisition, VLI and Progress Rail recently signed a 10-year Maintenance Services Agreement (MSA) focused on VLI’s Northern Corridor, which connects Tocantins to the port system of São Luís and serves the Matopiba agricultural region. This agreement is Progress Rail’s first long-term maintenance agreement in South America and a step forward in supporting Brazil’s locomotive fleet.
“It is an honor to be in Brazil with VLI and local dignitaries, celebrating a relationship rooted in innovation, reliability and customer focus,” said Brian Callear, senior vice president at Progress Rail. “VLI has a clear vision for operational excellence, and our collaboration will further strengthen locomotive availability and reliability to help meet the country’s growing demand for rail transport.”
Progress Rail provides OEM expertise, digital monitoring solutions, and the global supply chain needed to ensure VLI’s fleet performs at peak levels. Through deployment of skilled service teams, this expertise becomes embedded within Brazilian industry.
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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
