The General Electric Evolution series of locomotives was introduced in 2002 with the ES44AC and ES44DC, replacing the successful AC4400 & Dash-9 series of locomotives respectively. These locomotives were immediately successful with large numbers of orders pouring in. These locomotives were built around new 12 cylinder GEVO prime movers that generate the same 4400 horsepower of the previous FDL 16 cylinder prime movers they replaced. Additionally, these new prime movers and locomotives met the higher EPA Tier II emissions standards and provided better fuel economy at the same time.

In the early years, the ES44DC saw more success than in more recent times. Traditionally DC locomotives were less expensive to purchase and could be less complicated to maintain too. However, as time has passed, the cost difference and maintenance differences have lessened as the benefits of AC power for many applications have become clear. When the Evolution Series was introduced, there were several Class I's that did not use any AC power. Today, all Class I's use at least some AC units and most are adding mainly AC units going forward.

The ES44DC and ES44AC external appearance have changed over the years with improvements and specifications from the various railroads. This is particularly true in 2015, with new ES Locomotives having to meet EPA Tier 4 emissions standards. The Walthers Mainline model of this common locomotive offers an economical way to add general version of this modern locomotive to your layout.

Features:

• Fully assembled
• Heavy die cast chassis
• Same powerful drive as Walthers Proto locos
• 5-Pole skew-wound motor
• 14:1 gear ratio
• Helical cut gears for quiet operation & easy multiple unit operation
• All-wheel drive & electrical pickup dual machined brass flywheels
• Constant & directional lights
• Upper or lower headlight per prototype
• Working front ditch lights
• Standard DC and DCC w/Sound versions available
• Three truck styles to match prototypes:
  
  • Standard high-adhesion
    
  • Steerable
    
  • C4 A1A center idler axle
• RP-25 metal wheels
• Proto MAX metal knuckle couplers
• Easily handles 18" radius curves (22" or larger recommended)
• Molded drill starter points for grab irons (sold separately)