GMD New Zealand DC class

Built by EMD, GMD

Top speed

100 km/h

62 mph

Power output

1,230 kW

1,649 hp

Weight

82 t

180,779 lb

Length

14.1 m

46 ft 3 in

Track gauge

1,067 mm

Cape gauge

Years built

1955–1967

Overview of the GMD New Zealand DC class

Discover the New Zealand DC class locomotive, a robust diesel engine that has been a workhorse on the nation's railways. Built by EMD and GMD between 1955 and 1967, this G12 series locomotive played a vital role in freight and passenger transport.

With a top speed of 100 km/h and a power output of 1230 kW, the DC class is known for its strength and reliability. Its 1067 mm gauge and distinctive (A1A)(A1A) axle configuration are well-suited to New Zealand's diverse track network.

Many units underwent refurbishment by Clyde Engineering and NRZ in the late 1970s and early 1980s, extending their service life for operators such as KiwiRail and MAXX Auckland. Explore this enduring piece of New Zealand's railway heritage.

GMD New Zealand DC class technical specifications

	Value	Imperial / US
Series	G12
Built by	EMD, GMD · 1955–1967
Refurbished	Clyde Engineering, NRZ 1978 - 1981 (85)
Top speed	100 km/h62 mph	62 mph
Power output	1,230 kW1,649 hp	1,649 hp
Tractive effort	140 kN31,473 lbf	31,473 lbf
Track gauge	1,067 mmCape gauge3 ft 6 in	3 ft 6 in
UIC axle arrangement	(A1A)(A1A)
Length	14.1 m46 ft 3 in	46 ft 3 in
Width	3.01 m9 ft 11 in	9 ft 11 in
Height	4.3 m14 ft 1 in	14 ft 1 in
Weight	82 t180,779 lb	180,779 lb

Source of the data: en.wikipedia.orgView this model on trainspo.com Spotted an error? Let us know

Operators of the GMD New Zealand DC class

Railway companies that have operated the New Zealand DC class, with the class designation used by each of them.

Operator	Class	Country
KiwiRail Holdings Limited	KiwiRail DC	New Zealand
KiwiRail Holdings Limited	KiwiRail DCP	New Zealand
MAXX Auckland	MAXX DC	New Zealand
Tranz Rail Holdings Ltd	Tranz Rail DCP	New Zealand