Illinois Unveils Zero-Emission Battery Locomotive, Strengthening State’s Clean Energy Leadership

Illinois is celebrating a major clean energy milestone with the launch of a new zero-emission battery locomotive.

Illinois Leads the Charge in Zero-Emission Rail Tech

Governor Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCE), Innovative Rail Technologies (IRT), and Motive Power Resources, Inc. (MPR) on Wednesday (10/15) to celebrate the commissioning of Illinois' latest zero-emission, battery electric locomotive.

The project, backed by the state's Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois program, highlights the state's growing role in advancing clean energy and transportation innovation.

Powering the Future of Sustainable Manufacturing

Motive Power Resources has expanded its Grundy County facilities to increase production of IRT-designed battery locomotives and retrofit diesel engines with new battery systems for use across North Amecrican

Governor Pritzker called the milestone a "major advancement" for U.S. rail systems, emphasizing Illinois' leadership in clean manufacturing job creation.

DCEO Director Kristin Richards said the state's supplier first strategy ensures local manufacturers and workers are at the forefront of the clean energy revolution.

Building a Greener, More Competitive Economy

The new locomotive joins a trend of clean energy projects from companies like Nano Nuclear, Richardson Electronics, and Pure Lithium, signaling Illinois' strong economic growth plan in action.

IRT, now North America's largest producer of battery electric locomotives, is partnering with MPR to meet growing demand from industrial, military, and public clients across the continent.

The technology being built here in Illinois is setting the standard for sustainable rail innovation. -Mark Denzler, Illinois Manufacturers’ Association president.