What engine does the CSX have?
CSX Transportation relies on diesel-electric locomotives built by GE Transportation and Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD). The engine powering CSX’s trains varies by model, but the core answer is that CSX uses diesel engines that drive generators to power electric traction motors.
Diesel-electric foundations
In a diesel-electric locomotive, a diesel engine powers a generator or alternator, which then supplies electricity to traction motors connected to the wheels. This setup combines the reliability of a diesel prime mover with the flexibility of electric propulsion, allowing CSX to haul freight across diverse terrain and traffic patterns.
Main engine families in CSX’s fleet
CSX’s current roster centers on two primary engine families from major builders. The following summarizes the two key engines you’ll encounter on CSX locomotives.
- GE Evolution Series locomotives (ES44AC/ES44AH), powered by GE’s GEVO 12-cylinder diesel engine. These units are common on CSX’s modern mainline locomotives and are designed for high-efficiency freight service.
- EMD SD70MAC/SD70ACe family locomotives, powered by EMD’s 710-series engines (notably the 16-cylinder variant). These units represent CSX’s earlier widebody freight power and remain in service alongside newer models.
Across CSX’s network, both engine families enable heavy-haul capability, with service parameters ranging from intermodal runs to coal and general freight. The mix reflects CSX’s history of acquisitions and ongoing fleet modernization.
GE Evolution Series specifics
The GE Evolution Series, including ES44AC and ES44AH variants, is designed for robust freight performance on long-haul routes. The core powertrain is the GEVO diesel engine, a turbocharged internal combustion engine that drives a generator to feed the traction motors. This arrangement provides smooth acceleration, reliable starting power, and compatibility with modern rail signaling and efficiency standards.
CSX has integrated many Evolution Series units into its lineup, taking advantage of GE’s emphasis on fuel efficiency, emission control, and maintainability. The ES-series locomotives are a staple of CSX’s contemporary freight operations, particularly on busy corridors and high-throughput intermodal services.
EMD 710-series specifics
The EMD SD70MAC/SD70ACe family relies on EMD’s 710-series engines (commonly the 16-cylinder variant) to deliver substantial tractive effort for heavy freight. These locomotives are part of CSX’s earlier, broad-shouldered fleet and remain actively used for a wide range of services, including coal and container positions where lots of pulling power is required.
EMD's 710-series engines have a long track record in North American freight rail, and CSX’s roster includes a number of these units alongside newer GE Evolution locomotives. The mix allows CSX to balance maintenance profiles, regional requirements, and the variable demand of freight traffic.
Operational implications
The dual-engine strategy affects CSX’s maintenance planning, parts logistics, and crew training. Technicians must be proficient with both GE and EMD systems, while operations teams optimize performance by matching locomotive type to route, load, and schedule. This variety is both a strength in flexibility and a challenge in unified fleet management.
Summary
CSX does not have a single engine powering all of its locomotives. Instead, it operates a mixed diesel-electric fleet powered primarily by GE’s GEVO-based Evolution Series engines in newer units and EMD’s 710-series engines in older SD70MAC/SD70ACe models. The result is a versatile fleet capable of tackling a broad range of freight tasks across North America.
What engine is in a CSX?
2.0 L K20Z2 I4
What engine is in a 2006 Acura CSX?
2.0-litre four-cylinder engine
The CSX takes its 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine from the Acura RSX, with slightly different tuning, along with the RSX's sportier ride and handling. Two models are offered, the Touring and Premium.
How much horsepower does a 2008 Acura CSX have?
155 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Does CSX have VTEC?
Race-inspired to its aluminum core, the CSX is propelled by a high-performance, 2.0-litre, DOHC, i-VTEC, 4-cylinder engine.
