What Is a Diesel Electric Locomotive?
A diesel electric locomotive is the most common type of locomotive, or train engine, currently in use on railroads around the world. In this type of locomotive, a diesel engine provides power to an electric generator. The electricity generated then provides the power to engines connected to the locomotive’s wheels, turning the wheels and allowing it to move. In a diesel electric locomotive, the engine is not a drive engine turning the wheels and moving the train, as is frequently believed. The diesel engine is basically a power source. This is useful because diesel engines have several advantages. They are extremely reliable, easy to start, and are much simpler to repair than other types of engines. By having its own power source, the diesel electric locomotive is able to run on any kind of track.
