Wabtec Locomotive Expands Manufacturing Capabilities for Exports to Africa

Located on 70 acres in Marhowra, Bihar, the plant was established in 2018 with the aim of indigenously manufacturing 1,000 state-of-the-art locomotives for Indian Railways.

Wabtec Locomotive Private Limited, a joint venture between Indian Railways and Wabtec, is set to enhance its manufacturing capabilities at its Marhowra plant to facilitate the export of locomotives to Africa. This marks the first time the plant will produce locomotives specifically for a global customer.

The Marhowra plant will manufacture the Evolution Series ES43ACmi locomotives, which are equipped with a powerful 4,500 HP Evolution Series engine known for its superior fuel efficiency and robust performance in high-temperature environments. The plant is expected to begin exporting these locomotives in 2025.

This initiative holds strategic significance as it positions India as a global hub for locomotive manufacturing, aligning with the “Make in India” and “Make for the World” initiatives under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision promoted by the Hon'ble Prime Minister. The project will enable the Marhowra facility to export standard-gauge locomotives internationally, expanding the local supplier network and fostering long-term job creation, thus benefiting the Indian economy.

The collaboration between the Ministry of Railways and Wabtec has successfully positioned the Marhowra plant as a world-class manufacturing site, leveraging a comprehensive local supplier base from across India. To date, approximately 650 locomotives have been manufactured and integrated into the Indian Railways fleet. Both the Ministry of Railways and Wabtec are committed to further enhancing the plant’s capabilities and competitiveness, ensuring it is well-prepared for sustainable, long-term export production.

Located on 70 acres in Marhowra, Bihar, the plant was established in 2018 with the aim of indigenously manufacturing 1,000 state-of-the-art locomotives for Indian Railways. Currently, the facility employs around 600 people and has consistently delivered 100 locomotives annually to Indian Railways. Its operations have significantly boosted industrial activities in the state, contributing to local economic development and job creation.