Introduced in 1961, the GP30 was possibly the most distinctive diesel ever built in large numbers. Although longer and wider than previous EMD designs, a slight bulge was needed in the long hood just behind the cab to accommodate air handling and electrical equipment. Influenced by GM's auto styling staff, the bulge was covered with a rounded metal fairing that extended back to the middle of the long hood and to the front edge of the cab roof. The appearance of the new locos could also be changed by customer specifications. Some roads traded-in older power and their new GP30s rode on AAR trucks, usually from retired ALCO units. As the extra length of these older trucks required a slightly shorter fuel tank, three sizes were made available. Some roads operated under union rules that required an engineer, fireman and head brakeman on the engine, so the fireman's side of the cab was extended by 12" to provide room for a third seat. Although replaced by the new 35 Line in 1963, GP30s led long, productive lives in mainline service, and a few remain in revenue service on shortlines today. Like its prototype, the latest run of PROTO 2000 GP30s provides HO modelers with a rugged unit that's ideal for period layouts.