1928
98 years ago
InnovationUnited States
B&O Railroad Introduces Diesel-Electric Locomotive
Baltimore and Ohio Railroad
Baltimore
August 1, 1928
Summary
The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad placed the first diesel-electric locomotive into regular freight service.
Full Story
On August 1, 1928, the B&O Railroad began regular operations with its diesel-electric locomotive No. 50, built by General Electric. This 300-horsepower unit replaced steam on switching duties in Baltimore yards, offering greater reliability and lower costs. Engineer Rudolf Diesel's principles were adapted for rail. The event signaled the decline of steam power and the diesel revolution that transformed US railroads by the 1950s, improving efficiency and enabling longer hauls.
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Quick Facts
- Date
- August 1, 1928
- Event Type
- Innovation
- Country
- United States
- Years Ago
- 98
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