Head-on view of P-32 locomotive No. 700, 1990s.

To replace the popular F40 locomotive used to haul corridor and national system trains, Amtrak drafted requirements in the early 1990s for a new series of diesel-electric locomotives that would serve into the 21st century.

Working with General Electric (GE), Amtrak created a unit with increased fuel efficiency and fewer polluting emissions than its predecessor, while incorporating the latest microprocessor technology. GE in turn joined with German affiliate Krupp, which had experience in the European market with the manufacture of lightweight locomotive frames and trucks. To reduce the unit’s weight for greater fuel efficiency, GE employed a monocoque body.

In addition to the P-40 and P-42, Amtrak and GE developed a 3200 horsepower unit, known as the P-32, that was designed to operate over an electric third rail into New York Penn Station. P-32 No. 700 is shown in this image wearing the Phase III paint scheme introduced in 1979. The units entered service between 1995 and 1998.

Photographer: Unknown for Amtrak. From the Blair Slaughter Collection.