All aboard the eco-train

Union Pacific is replacing several of its switch locomotives with new low-emission diesel models by the end of the month. Ten of them will used at the company’s Southern California rail yard in Commerce.

According to Union Pacific, the engines in the new locomotives are projected to reduce emissions of both oxides of nitrogen and particulate matter by up to 80 percent. They will also use about 16 percent less fuel.

The company announced the delivery of its first 60 models earlier this year. The locomotives will serve customers and sort rail cars for outbound trains, replacing low-power engines used in the Los Angeles basin.