GE "Genesis" Series Locomotives: Data, Specs, Roster
Last revised: December 31, 2024
By: Adam Burns
The Genesis was a series of passenger diesel locomotives produced by GE Transportation Systems, a subsidiary of General Electric, produced between 1992-2001.
These locomotives were built for Amtrak and Metro-North in the United States, as well as VIA Rail in Canada.
They are known for their distinctive streamlined design and are more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly than their predecessors. The Genesis series includes several models including the P40DC, P42DC, and dual mode P32AC-DM.
Outwardly, all variants appear nearly identical with a sharp angular nose and smooth, streamlined carbody. While most of the 321 units produced still remain in service today, some of the earlier P40DCs have either been sold, modified, or scrapped.
It appears the Genesis locomotives, which have become a common sight leading Amtrak trains for 30 years, will eventually be phased out of service in the coming years as the carrier continues to acquire new ALC-42 "Chargers" from Siemens.
Photos
P40DC
By the 1990s, General Electric was the preeminent locomotive manufacturer in North America. Its 'Dash 8' and 'Dash 9' freight line, as well as its popular AC variant, were selling thousands during this time and it's no surprise GE was also tapped by Amtrak when it came time to replace its aging F40PHs.
In his book, "Locomotives: The Modern Diesel & Electric Referenece, Second Edition," author Greg McDonnell notes GE was awarded a contract in 1991 to supply Amtrak with 52 new locomotives. The first 20 were the Dash 8-32BWH's which carried a very similar appearance to the builder's freight line.
The remaining 32, however, looked entirely different. The Genesis series represented a significant evolution in American railroad technology. Amtrak required the new model, designated Dash 8-40BP (or P40DC), to boast 4,000 horsepower, be HEP equipped (and while idling at stations) and dual-mode capable.
The P40DC, designed in conjunction with GE's German subsidiary, Krupp Verkehrstechnik GmbH, featured a monocoque carbody and bolsterless trucks sporting hydraulic shocks and Flexicoil suspension.
The locomotive featured GE's trusted FDL16 prime mover along with an 800 kilowatt, 480VAC three-phase 60-cycle GTA33A1 HEP alternator. Other modernities for that time included microprocessor controls, Integrated Function Control, and MicroSentry wheel-slip control.
The carbody was designed by Cesar Vergara, Amtrak's manager of car design. The full-length carbody was different from anything previously seen in American railroading and almost carried a European look with the heavily slanted nose.
The first production P40DC, #800, was unveiled on December 2, 1992. It entered revenue service on March 9, 1993, showcasing its advanced features to the public. Ultimatey, Amtrak wound up with 44 P40DCs numbered 800-843.
P42DC
Following the successful introduction of the P40DC, GE unveiled the P42DC - the next production model in the Genesis series in 1996. It carried the same carbody but featured greater horsepower (4200) and improvements to overall electronics and microprocessor controls.
It was first displayed on February 7, 1996 and began its revenue service on August 20, 1996. It became a critical part of Amtrak's fleet with Amtrak eventually rostering a total of 207 units when production ended in the fall of 2001, numbered 1-207.
Interestingly, Canadian carrier VIA Rail came in late and purchased a small fleet of these locomotives. Delivered between October-December, 2001 these twenty-one units were numbered 900-920.
P32AC-DM
The P32AC-DM was the final model in this compelling series, and a demonstration of progress for diesel-electric technology. This model was specifically designed for both diesel and electric modes to operate into and out of New York's Grand Central Terminal and Pennsylvania Station.
Once again, this locomotive appeared nearly identical outwardly to the P40DC and P42DC. Aside from its dual mode capabilities the model featured a 12-cylinder FDL engine that could produce 3,200 horsepower sporting AC propulsion while electric mode provided 2,700 horsepower. The P32AC-DM was unveiled on April 10, 1995 and entered revenue service on January 2, 1996.
Aside from Amtrak's eighteen examples, Metro-North purchased thirty-one units numbered 201–231. All Genesis series locomotives were engineered and assembled in the United States at GE Transportation's manufacturing facility in Erie, Pennsylvania.
This facility was long-established as GE's main manufacturing plant for locomotives, contributing to job creation and economic impact in the local area.
Amtrak P42DC #42 is seen here on display at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer wearing a special livery honoring veterans on May 30, 2014. Warren Calloway photo.The production timeline for the Genesis series is as follows: P40DCs were produced in 1993, P42DCs were manufactured from 1996 to 2001, and P32AC-DMs were in production from 1995 to 2001.
A total of 43 P40DC locomotives were produced for Amtrak, while 207 P42DC locomotives were also purchased by the same operator. In addition, VIA Rail acquired the 21 units previously mentioned. Finally, Amtrak picked up 18 P32AC-DMs and Metro-North another 31.
Amtrak's fleet of Genesis series are easily identified by their road numbers. The P40DC units are numbered from 800 to 843, while P42DC units are numbered from 1 to 207. The P32AC-DM models have road numbers from 700 to 717.
Total procurement costs for these locomotives have not been fully disclosed due to proprietary reasons. However, public information indicates these diesel-electric locomotives' estimated cost is between $2 and $5 million per unit, varying by model and specifications.
Data Sheet and Specifications
| Entered Production | 3/1993 (Burlington Northern/GE #7400-7402) |
| Years Produced | 3/1993 - 12/2001 |
| GE Class | P40DC, P42DC, P32AC-DM |
| Engine (P40DC, P42DC) | 7FDL16 (16 cylinder) |
| Engine (P32AC-DM) | 7FDL12 (12 cylinder) |
| Engine Builder | General Electric |
| Horsepower (P32AC-DM) | 3200 |
| Horsepower (P40DC) | 4000 |
| Horsepower (P42DC) | 4200 |
| RPM | 1050 |
| RPM (HEP Mode) | 600-900 |
| Length | 69' 0" |
| Height (Top Of Rail To Top Of Cab) | 14' 4" |
| Width | 10' 0" |
| Weight (P40DC) | 263,000 Lbs |
| Weight (P32AC-DM) | 275,000 Lbs |
| Weight (P42DC) | 269,000 Lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 2,200 Gallons |
| Air Brake Schedule | 26L (Westinghouse) |
| Trucks | B-B |
| Truck Type | Bolsterless (Krupp Verkehrstechnik GmbH) |
| Truck Wheelbase | 9' 0" |
| Wheel Size | 40" |
| Traction Motors (P40DC, P42DC) | 752AH (4), GE |
| Traction Motors (P32AC-DM) | GEB15 (4), GE |
| Traction Alternator | GMG195, GE |
| HEP Alternator | GTA33, GE |
| MU (Multiple-Unit) | Yes |
| Dynamic Brakes | Yes |
| Gear Ratio | 83:20 |
| Tractive Effort/Starting (P40DC, P42DC) | 63,000 Lbs |
| Tractive Effort/Continuous (P40DC, P42DC) | 38,000 Lbs at 38 mph |
| Tractive Effort/Starting (P32AC-DM) | 62,000 Lbs |
| Tractive Effort/Continuous (P32AC-DM) | 25,500 Lbs at 64 mph |
| Top Speed | 110 mph |
Production Roster
P40DC
| Owner | Road Number | Serial Number | Order Number | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 800-843 | 47268-47311 | 1427 | 3/1993-4/1993 |
P42DC
| Owner | Road Number | Serial Number | Order Number | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1-30 | 49320-49349 | 1430 | 8/1996-11/1996 |
| Amtrak | 31-98 | 49569-49636 | 1430 | 12/1996-6/1997 |
| Amtrak | 99-120 | 49951-49972 | 1431 | 6/1997-9/1997 |
| Amtrak | 121, 122 | 52585, 52586 | 1435 | 8/2000 |
| Amtrak | 123-147 | 52803-52827 | 1435 | 10/2000-2/2001 |
| Amtrak | 148-160 | 52844-52856 | 1435 | 2/2001-4/2001 |
| Amtrak | 161-207 | 53017-53063 | 1435 | 4/2001-10/2001 |
| VIA Rail | 900-920 | 53216-53236 | 1437 | 10/2001-12/2001 |
P32AC-DM
| Owner | Road Number | Serial Number | Order Number | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 700-709 | 47920-47929 | 1428 | 4/1995-7/1995 |
| Amtrak | 710-717 | 50190-50197 | 1433 | 1/1998-3/1998 |
| Metro-North Railroad | 201-205 | 48676-48680 | 1429 | 7/1995-8/1995 |
| Metro-North Railroad | 206-212 | 50287-50293 | 1432 | 11/1997-3/1998 |
| Metro-North Railroad | 213-218 | 50570-50575 | 1433 | 4/1998-5/1998 |
| Metro-North Railroad | 219-231 | 52828-52840 | 1436 | 5/2001-8/2001 |
Amtrak P42DCs #63 and #165 have the eastbound "Capitol Limited" operating over CSX at Dawson, Pennsylvania on May 30, 2006. Wade Massie photo.Each GE Genesis locomotive model has its unique technical specifications. For instance, the P40DC is 69' 0" long, 14' 4" tall, 10' 0" wide, weighs approximately 263,000 lbs, and has a maximum speed of 110 mph.
Similarly, P42DC's available data includes it being 69' 0" long, 14' 4" tall, 10' 0" wide, weighing around 275,000 lbs, and achieving a maximum speed of 110 mph. The P32AC-DM measures 69' 0" in length, stands 14' 4" in height, spans 10' 0" in width, weighs roughly 269,000 lbs, and can reach up to 110 mph in standard mode and 60 mph in full electric.
Amtrak's entire fleet of P40DCs have either been sold, rebuilt, or scrapped. Three units were destroyed in wrecks; #819 in the 1993 Big Bayou Canot wreck and #870 and #829 in the 1999 Bourbonnais, Illinois crash. In 2005, Connecticut DOT acquired eight for Shore Line East service (#833, #834, #836, #838, #840-843) while four others were rebuilt and sold to New Jersey Transit in 2007 (#808, #810, #812, #820).
The remaining 29 units were retired although 15 were rebuilt following funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The first examples were completed in March, 2010 at the Beech Grove Shops. All 15 units have been upgraded to P42DC specifications with 4,250 horsepower.
Sources
- Foster, Gerald. A Field Guide To Trains. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 1996.
- Marre, Louis A. and Pinkepank, Jerry A. Contemporary Diesel Spotter's Guide, The: A Comprehensive Reference Manual To Locomotives Since 1972. Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1989.
- McDonnell, Greg. Locomotives: The Modern Diesel & Electric Reference, 2nd Edition. Buffalo: Boston Mills Press/Firefly Books, 2015.
- Solomon, Brian. American Diesel Locomotive, The. Osceola: MBI Publishing, 2000.
- Solomon, Brian. GE and EMD Locomotives: The Illustrated History. Minneapolis: Voyageur Press, 2014.
- Solomon, Brian. GE Locomotives: 110 Years Of General Electric Motive Power. St. Paul: MBI Publishing, 2003.
Recent Articles
-
U.S. Rail Traffic Shows Continued Strength in Week 27 Of 2026
Jul 16, 26 11:52 AM
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) released its weekly rail traffic report on July 15, 2026, covering data for the week ending July 11, 2026 (Week 27). -
DL&W's Tavern-Lounge Observation Cars
Jul 15, 26 10:06 PM
The tavern-lounge-observation cars on the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad’s (DL&W) Phoebe Snow were signature tail-end cars (numbered 789 and 790), not built by Pullman but by the Budd Company… -
B&O Railroad Museum Rebrands
Jul 15, 26 03:23 PM
The historic B&O Railroad Museum, long celebrated as a cornerstone of American railroad heritage, announced on July 14, 2026, that it is changing its name to the National Museum of Railroad History… -
Amtrak’s Empire Builder – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 15, 26 12:56 PM
Complete 2026 guide to Amtrak’s Empire Builder. Route overview, best scenic sections, schedules, what to expect, and tips for riding this iconic long-distance train through the northern United States. -
Washington ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 11:39 AM
Here’s a detailed look at where and how to ride, what to expect, and practical tips to make the most of wine tasting by rail in Washington. -
Kentucky ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 11:37 AM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Best THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides Across the United States 2026
Jul 15, 26 11:04 AM
Discover the best THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides in the US for 2026. Top locations, what to expect, dates, and tips for this magical holiday experience based on the beloved story. -
Indiana ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:20 AM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Ohio ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:14 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Arizona ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:06 AM
Let's delve into the captivating world of Arizona's Wild West train adventures, currently offered at the popular Grand Canyon Railway. -
Michigan ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 08:49 AM
While the term 'wild west' often conjures up images of dusty plains and expansive deserts, Michigan offers its own unique take on this thrilling period of history. -
Amtrak’s Coast Starlight – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 14, 26 02:24 PM
Complete 2026 guide to Amtrak’s Coast Starlight. Route highlights, best scenic sections, schedules, what to expect, and tips for riding one of America’s most beautiful long-distance trains. -
Best Steam-Powered Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026
Jul 14, 26 01:21 PM
Discover the best steam-powered scenic train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From Cass Scenic Railroad Shays to Strasburg and other heritage steam operations — schedules, highlights, and tips. -
Indiana - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 12:34 PM
On select dates, the French Lick Scenic Railway adds a social twist with its popular Beer Tasting Train—a 21+ evening built around craft pours, rail ambience, and views you can’t get from the highway. -
Wisconsin ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 12:10 PM
Through a unique blend of interactive entertainment and historical reverence, Wisconsin offers a captivating glimpse into the past with its Wild West train rides. -
Georgia ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 11:46 AM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
Florida ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 11:34 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Texas ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 10:05 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New Mexico ~ Wine Tasting ~Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:26 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Tennessee ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:10 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
California ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:01 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri… -
North Carolina ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:49 PM
North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides. -
Pennsylvania ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:45 PM
The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride. -
New York ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:40 PM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
Michigan ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:35 PM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Illinois ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:32 PM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Vermont ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:28 PM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
The Flying Scotsman’s American Adventure: LNER 4472’s U.S. Tour
Jul 13, 26 12:02 PM
In the fall of 1969, a gleaming British steam locomotive unlike anything most Americans had ever seen rolled into Boston and spent the next four years touring the U.S. -
Amtrak's California Zephyr – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 12, 26 01:04 PM
Explore Amtrak’s California Zephyr, one of America’s most scenic long-distance train routes. Complete 2026 guide with highlights, best times to ride, what to expect, photography tips, and fall foliage… -
Alabama ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:25 PM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
Indiana ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:22 PM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
South Dakota ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:04 PM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
New Mexico ~ Murder Mystery ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 11:41 AM
Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails. -
Michigan ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 11:36 AM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration. -
Best Christmas and Holiday Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026
Jul 12, 26 11:05 AM
Discover the best Christmas and holiday train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026, including Polar Express experiences, Santa trains, and festive scenic journeys. Plan your magical rail adventure this… -
New York ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 09:53 AM
Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era. -
Ohio ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 09:38 AM
For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. -
Western Pacific's 4-6-6-4 "Challengers" (M-100)
Jul 11, 26 11:29 PM
In the late 1930s, the Western Pacific stood at a crossroads. Traffic volumes were recovering from the Great Depression, and the railroad needed more powerful, faster locomotives to move longer freigh… -
Cass Scenic Railroad Fall Foliage Trips 2026 – Complete Guide
Jul 11, 26 04:28 PM
Plan your 2026 fall foliage trip on the Cass Scenic Railroad. Complete guide to the Bald Knob route, schedules, what to expect, photography tips, and why this West Virginia steam train ride is one of… -
Best Fall Foliage Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern United States 2026
Jul 11, 26 03:16 PM
Discover the best fall foliage train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From steam-powered mountain climbs in West Virginia to scenic heritage railroads across the Appalachians and beyond — plan your… -
Missouri ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:27 AM
In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides. -
Indiana ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:17 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
North Carolina ~ Whiskey Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:05 AM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
West Virginia ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:45 AM
West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains. -
Utah ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:42 AM
Utah, a state widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, is also gaining recognition for an unexpected yet delightful experience: wine tasting trains. -
Virginia ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:12 AM
Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel. -
Maryland ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:02 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
U.S. Rail Traffic Surges 8.7% in Holiday Week Ending July 4, 2026
Jul 10, 26 03:39 PM
Despite the Independence Day holiday (which fell on a Saturday), U.S. freight railroads delivered an impressive performance, posting an 8.7% year-over-year increase in total traffic -
APSL Nears Acquisition Of B&O Depot In Paw Paw, WV
Jul 10, 26 11:44 AM
After decades of quiet abandonment, a dedicated preservation effort by the Allegany Preservation Society Limited (APSL) is racing to secure its future— having already raised approximately 90 percent o… -
Minnesota ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 10, 26 10:05 AM
Murder mystery dinner trains offer an enticing blend of suspense, culinary delight, and perpetual motion, where passengers become both detectives and dining companions on an unforgettable journey.
