GP15 Diesel Locomotive

Prototype Information

EMD launched the GP15 series in the mid-1970s to give railroads a fresh, light road switcher without the excess horsepower or fuel burn of bigger units. Built between 1976 and 1982, the GP15 gave carriers a practical alternative to rebuilding aging GP7s and GP9s.

The first version, the GP15-1, carried a 12-cylinder, 1500-horsepower 645E engine and borrowed many parts from the GP38-2 and GP40-2, which made upkeep simple for roads already running EMD power. Railroads put the locomotives to work on locals, yard jobs, and branch lines, where the GP15’s balance of power and efficiency fit perfectly. EMD later added the GP15T, with a turbocharged 8-cylinder engine, and the GP15AC, which used an alternator instead of the standard generator.

Missouri Pacific, Conrail, and several regionals bought large fleets, and the engines quickly proved their worth. Even today, GP15s still switch cars for Class I railroads, pull locals for short lines, and serve leasing companies. Their durability and straightforward design keep them relevant decades after they rolled out of La Grange.