Leeds, United Kingdom and Erie, Pennsylvania, USA (Nov. 24, 2009) – Freightliner Group Ltd. and GE Transportation announced today that Freightliner has officially launched the first PowerHaul locomotives at a ceremony held at Freightliner’s depot near Leeds, UK – introducing state-of-the art technology to the UK’s rail freight market.

Representing GE Transportation's entry to the UK and European marketplace, the PowerHaul locomotives were manufactured in Erie, Pennsylvania, USA where comprehensive testing was completed.

Providing greater hauling capacity and significant improvements in fuel economy, the PowerHaul locomotives are undergoing commissioning before entering service and complementing Freightliner’s existing fleet of more than 160 locomotives.

“PowerHaul is a more business-efficient locomotive, hauling more freight and providing more power at the rail-head, it will enable a better use of the rail network whilst lowering Freightliner’s carbon footprint,” said Peter Maybury, CEO, Freightliner Group Limited at the ceremony. “PowerHaul is yet another example of innovation and forward thinking that has been crucial in taking Freightliner to the position we are in today. PowerHaul would not have been possible without the excellent partnership Freightliner and GE have formed and the dedication of all the team over the last two years. The introduction of this new technology will further advance Freightliner’s reputation as a dynamic and modern logistics company.”

"Our partnership with Freightliner began two years ago, and I am extremely proud to see the first two PowerHaul locomotives on UK soil here today,” said Lorenzo Simonelli, President and CEO of GE Transportation. “The presence of the PowerHaul locomotives not only confirms the firm relationship that exists between GE and Freightliner, but also represents the entry of GE Transportation's global PowerHaul locomotive platform into the UK and European market place. This is one more important step in what I expect to be a long and fruitful relationship with our customer and partner - Freightliner."