Why Metro-North’s New Hybrid Trains Will Change Your Commute Forever

Soon, taking the train from to and from the Hudson Valley might feel, sound, and even smell different.

In a recent press conference, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) unveiled some big changes for their trains that serve both New York and Connecticut. The biggest difference is how these new locomotives are powered.

New Locomotives Coming to Metro-North Trains in 2025

The new trains that the MTA say will be in service by early 2025 are not the first to use both diesel and electric power, although the amount of fossil fuels used by the new SC42-DM locomotives has changed drastically.

Improved "Hybrid" Trains Coming to Metro-North

The MTA reported that the current locomotives used for train service in the Hudson Valley only used electric power for the short 4-mile tunnel journey as they leave and arrive to Grand Central Station. The new SC42-DMs have a range more similar to a hybrid car.

Meet the New SC42-DM Locomotive Coming to the Hudson Valley

According to the MTA, the SC42-DM locomotive can run entirely on electricity between New York City and the Croton-Harmon station in the Hudson Valley. Additionally, the MTA reports that when the trains switch to diesel power, the engines release 85% less air pollutants. But that's not all.

Read More: How to Take Direct Train Service to the New York State Fair 

The MTA says the new diesel engines are "Tier IV compliant", which means they follow the most current and strictest emission standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

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The announcement is just the latest update from Metro-North, including route improvements and service additions. Take a look at more fascinating New York train history below.