American diesel for Isle of Man

摘要

Motive Power & Equipment Solutions of Greenville, South Carolina, will supply a new diesel locomotive for the Isle of Man Steam Railway. Originally, a new locomotive based on a Romanian L45H was envisaged, but the American option emerged in July as Tynwald (the loM government) gave its backing to the required expenditure (ft/W October). The cost has not been . revealed, but the Manx government approved a budget for ￡350,000 of capital funds in addition to ￡50,000 previously agreed for the design of a new diesel - a much-criticised ￡750,000 project. The new diesel will be based on reconditioned frames and -electric traction motors, but with a new engine, generator and bodywork, featuring a cab at each end. It is reportedly similar to 25 other locos being built by MPES, but adapted to the loM's requirements.