Exo has begun operating the first of ten new Siemens Mobility Charger locomotives on its Montreal-area commuter rail network. The locomotives are replacing the long-serving F59PH units, which have been in operation for over 35 years.
The Charger locomotives can haul ten-car trains, compared to eight for the previous generation, offering improved operational flexibility. The locomotives meet stricter emissions standards and are expected to reduce the environmental footprint of Exo’s diesel-operated services.
Initial deployments are focused on the Saint-Jérôme line, which serves the North Shore region, Laval, and northern districts of the Island of Montreal. Four locomotives have been delivered so far, with the remainder scheduled to arrive progressively. Each unit undergoes testing before entering passenger service. Exo confirmed that no changes to the timetable are planned during the transition.
The purchase is funded by the Government of Quebec through its public transportation assistance programme. Exo is the second largest public transit agency in the Greater Montreal area, operating commuter trains, buses, and paratransit services across nearly 100 municipalities.
