Wabtec Corporation and Rio Tinto SimFer, a joint venture of the Republic of Guinea, Rio Tinto, and Chalco Iron Ore Holdings (CIOH), have unveiled the first ES43ACi Evolution Series locomotive for the TransGuinéen Railway. The milestone marks a major step in the development of the Simandou iron ore project—Africa’s largest mining and infrastructure investment.

The locomotive, produced as part of SimFer’s 2024 order, will support rail operations linking the high-grade Simandou iron ore reserves in southeastern Guinea to international markets. The 600-km multi-use railway will connect the mines to a coastal export terminal in Forécariah prefecture.

“This locomotive symbolises a pivotal step in connecting Simandou to the world and creating opportunity for Guinea,” said Charles Zimmermann, Global Head of Projects, Rio Tinto. “Its arrival supports our goal of delivering Guinea’s iron to global markets efficiently and sustainably.”

The unveiling was attended by officials from Guinea, India, and the US, alongside representatives from Indian Railways, Wabtec, and Rio Tinto SimFer. The locomotive, painted in blue and turquoise livery of La Compagnie de TransGuinéen, is the first of several units to be deployed for this large-scale infrastructure venture.

“This is a proud moment for our global team,” said Mpilo Dlamini, Regional VP, Wabtec Sub-Saharan Africa. “The ES43ACi is purpose-built to withstand demanding high-temperature conditions and will play a key role in transporting Simandou’s high-grade ore while supporting local economic development.”

Manufactured at Wabtec’s plant in Marhowra, India, the locomotive boasts a 4,500 HP Evolution Series diesel engine designed in the US, offering industry-leading fuel efficiency and heavy-haul performance. This represents Wabtec India’s largest-ever export order for heavy-haul locomotives.

With an estimated 1.5 billion tonnes of high-grade iron ore reserves, the Simandou project is expected to significantly boost Guinea’s economic output, infrastructure capabilities, and global role in mineral exports.