Much awaited GE made WDG-6G Diesel Locomotive to begin pre-induction trials
The 6,000 horsepower diesel locomotive is known to pack a punch thanks to its superior power to weight ratio. It will now be put on Confirmatory Oscillograph Car Run (CDCR) trials in the Vikarabad – Parli section of South Central Railway.
This induction would be part of a greater cooperation between Indian Railways and the General Electric which includes setting up of a diesel locomotive shed in Bihar. In total General Electric will supply 300 such engines to the Indian Railways.
The engine boasts of higher fuel efficiency, lower emission rate and comes fitted with a fully turbocharged and intercooled 16 cylinder V-16 Evolution series engine. It is also set to increase the revenue of Indian Railways due to its higher hauling capacity.
The engine may also become a loco pilot favourite as the cockpit comes fitted with air-conditioning, heating and proper ventilation, a hot plate for cooking and urinals.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the much-awaited GE‑built WDG‑6G Diesel Locomotive, now beginning pre-induction trials in Indian Railways:
🚄 High-Powered WDG‑6G: India’s Most Potent Diesel Locomotive
- The WDG‑6G (IR class ES57ACi) is a 6,000 hp diesel‑electric locomotive built by GE Transportation (now Wabtec) in the U.S., introduced to Indian Railways freight operations under the Evolution Series contract.
- Featuring a 16-cylinder V‑16 GEVO engine, it’s India’s first UIC‑1 emission‑compliant freight locomotive, combining power with relatively low emissions and the lightest build in its class globally.
🔧 Trial Runs: Pre-Induction on SCR Network
- In mid‑June 2019, two units (engine nos. 69001 and 69002) were dispatched to South Central Railway’s Maula Ali Shed (MLY) for Confirmatory Oscillograph Car Run (COCR) trials on the Vikarabad–Parli section.
- These trials assess dynamics, track response, and overall safety before the locos are cleared for mainstream operations.
🛠️ Technical Innovations & Cab Features
- AC‑AC traction motors, IGBT control, electronic fuel injection, and remote health monitoring enhance efficiency, reliability, and predictive diagnostics
- The driver cabin includes HVAC, heated windshields, a hot plate, urinal, display screens, trip optimizers, cab signaling, and is crash‑resistant per EN/AAR norms.
🌱 Efficiency, Capacity & Strategic Rationale
- WDG‑6G aims to increase hauling capacity, enhance fuel economy, and provide backup during electric network failures or unelectrified sections
- Indian Railways ordered 300 units, with local production at Diesel Loco Factory, Marhowra under the Make‑in‑India initiative
- As of mid‑2025, approximately 179 units were operational across sheds at Roza, Gandhidham, and Gooty.
📊 Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | WDG‑6G (GE ES57ACi) |
| Power | 6,000 hp (V16 Evolution series engine) |
| Emission Standard | UIC‑1 compliant—first in India |
| Trial Section | Vikarabad–Parli (SCR), COCR trial stage |
| Cab Amenities | HVAC, heated windshield, hot plate, urinal, display screens |
| Tech Features | IGBT traction, remote diagnostics, trip optimizer, cab signaling |
| Production Plan | 300 units—initial units imported, remainder built in Marhowra, Bihar |
| Operational Sheds | Roza, Gandhidham, Gooty (total ~179 units as of June 2025) |
🧠 Community Perspective
Reddit rail enthusiasts highlight:
“It’s like India’s WDG6G (ES57ACi)… from GE’s evolution series… WDG6G has better overall finish too.”
“WDG‑6G… most powerful diesel‑electric engine in India… such a vibrant livery.”
Many note that despite fast electrification, these locomotives remain essential for non‑electrified corridors, backup operations, and freight-intensive segments.
✅ Final Thoughts
The WDG‑6G locomotive—built by GE to modern, high-efficiency standards—is now undergoing pre-induction trial runs in SCR, marking a major step in Indian Railways’ fleet modernization. With its high horsepower, emission compliance, advanced diagnostics, and crew-friendly design, the WDG‑6G is set to enhance freight capacity and operational resilience across the network.
Would you like details on deployment plans in freight corridors, maintenance strategies, or comparisons with other high‑horsepower locomotives like WDG‑4G?
