FECR Adopts New Locomotive Technology
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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – June 11, 2015 — Florida East Coast Railway (FECR) has installed Trip Optimizer technology in its 24 new GE ES44C4 locomotives. Trip Optimizer is designed to help railroads manage fuel expense while maintaining predictable transit times.Trip Optimizer is part of RailConnect™ 360, a connected suite of software solutions that provides data-driven insights. It leverages big data to learn a train’s characteristics and then builds an optimal operating plan over a given terrain for the train. Trip Optimizer functions much like an aircraft’s autopilot by automatically controlling the train’s throttle and dynamic brakes when active, while allowing the operator to return to manual control at any time.
“We are very pleased with the performance of Trip Optimizer,” said Fran Chinnici, Senior Vice President of Mechanical, Engineering and Purchasing. “One of the key factors in our decision to purchase the new GE locomotives was the advanced engine technology platform and the potential to lower fuel consumption. Our use of Trip Optimizer is another proactive step taken by FECR to achieve sustainable fuel savings and emissions reduction.”
Other benefits of the technology include reduced wear and tear on rolling stock and tracks and improved consistency in train handling and transit times.
Today, approximately 97 percent of all FECR through trains use Trip Optimizer, one of the highest utilization rates in the industry.
“GE is impressed by the rapid adoption of Trip Optimizer by FECR's engineers, who lead the industry in miles-in-auto-control per equipped locomotive. FECR has a firm commitment to innovation and advanced technologies, and we look forward to working with them on additional features that we have in development,” said Dave Eldredge, GE’s Trip Optimizer product manager.
“Trip Optimizer is an excellent platform that allows us to continue to build automation into our equipment and processes,” said Mr. Chinnici.
About Florida East Coast Railway
The Florida East Coast Railway ("FECR") is a 351-mile freight rail system located along the east coast of Florida. It is the exclusive rail provider for PortMiami, Port Everglades, and Port of Palm Beach. FECR connects to the national railway system in Jacksonville, Florida, to move cargo originating or terminating there. Based in Jacksonville, Florida, FECR provides end-to-end intermodal and carload solutions to customers who demand cost-effective and premium quality. For more information, visit www.fecrwy.com.
FECR Media Contact: Robert Ledoux, 904-279-3111, Robert.Ledoux@fecrwy.com
