EMD FL9

The EMD FL9 was a unique diesel locomotive built by General Motors' Electro-Motive Division (EMD) in the late 1950s. These locomotives were specifically designed for commuter service on the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad (commonly known as the New Haven Railroad). Their key feature was the ability to operate on both diesel power and third-rail electric power, allowing seamless transitions between non-electrified lines and the third-rail electrified approaches to Grand Central Terminal in New York City.

The FL9s were essentially modified EMD E7 locomotives, with added third-rail shoes and associated electrical equipment. This allowed them to avoid the time-consuming and costly process of switching between diesel locomotives and electric locomotives at the edges of the electrified territory.

The locomotives were rated at 1,750 horsepower in diesel mode and 1,600 horsepower in electric mode. They featured a streamlined, passenger locomotive carbody, similar in appearance to other EMD E-series locomotives.

The New Haven Railroad initially ordered 60 FL9s in 1956. These locomotives served reliably for many years, and some were later transferred to other commuter rail operators, including Metro-North Railroad, which continued to operate them into the early 2000s. Their dual-power capability made them ideally suited for the unique operational requirements of the New York commuter rail network. The FL9 is considered an iconic locomotive, representing an innovative solution to a specific railroad operating challenge.