Minooka, IL – Illinois Governor JB Pritzker joined manufacturing partners in Grundy County this week to unveil a new generation of zero-emission, battery electric locomotives designed and built in Minooka — a milestone in the state’s clean energy manufacturing expansion.
According to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), the unveiling was part of a collaboration between Innovative Rail Technologies (IRT) and Motive Power Resources, Inc. (MPR), supported by the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV Illinois) program. The initiative encourages companies to invest in sustainable transportation technology while creating skilled jobs across Illinois.
Governor Pritzker praised the project as a major advancement in cleaner rail technology. “This will make rail systems nationwide more efficient and resilient while strengthening Illinois’ leadership in clean manufacturing,” Pritzker said.
IRT and MPR have expanded their Minooka facilities to ramp up production of battery-electric locomotives and retrofit diesel models for use throughout the U.S. and Canada. Company officials said the expansion is expected to bring additional manufacturing jobs to Grundy County and increase Illinois-based supplier participation.
Innovative Rail Technologies, the largest producer of battery-electric locomotives in North America, has partnered with Illinois suppliers in Peoria, Aurora, Decatur, and Buffalo Grove. The newly unveiled locomotive will serve Fort Hood, a U.S. military base in Texas, and includes backup emergency power capabilities.
State officials said the project reflects Illinois’ broader commitment to sustainability, economic growth, and domestic manufacturing leadership.
