Continuing the tradition, Kato USA is re-issuing another pair of previously out-of-production EMD SD70ACe Heritage locomotives in the distinctive and exciting UP Heritage paint schemes, this time in the popular Missouri Pacific (complete with “Screaming Eagle” paint scheme) and Western Pacific (in a gorgeous two-tone grey and green that imitates the pattern of the traditional WP feather herald) variations!

The SD70ACe is Electro-Motive Diesel's hope for the future. While designed to meet the Environmental Protection Agency's Tier-2 emissions requirements that took effect on January 1, 2005, this replacement for the SD70MAC also has a higher purpose: to recapture the lead in North American locomotive sales that EMD lost to General Electric in 1987.

Under the hood beats a third-generation model 710 diesel with 4300 horsepower; only slight modifications were needed to make the existing model 710 meet new emission standards. With 5000 such motors in service worldwide and a reputation for dependability, EMD reasoned that shop crews would prefer familiar technology.

Other than the prime mover, however, virtually every element of the SD70ACe has been re-thought to create a 21st century locomotive. Ergonomics were a prime consideration. The engine's angular nose offers the crew far better visibility than most other locomotives, and the cab is comfortable for engineers of almost any size. Digital screens provide a range of information on what is happening both inside the locomotive and out on the road. The cab easily accommodates a crew of three- an important factor in a modern world without cabooses. And there is, of course, a cupholder for the engineer.