GE Transportation is the largest producer of diesel–electric locomotives for both freight and passenger applications in North America, believed to hold up to a 70% market share of that market.[3] The only other significant competitor is Caterpillar-owned Electro-Motive Diesel, holding an approximate 30% market share.[4]


Two cylindrical hoppers built by GE Transportation
GE Transportation also produces related products, such as railroad signaling equipment, and parts for locomotives and railroad cars, as well as providing repair services for GE and other locomotives. Current locomotives in major production include the GE Evolution Series.

GE produced its first locomotive in 1912, and continued to produce switcher locomotives through the 1920s and 30s, while also producing electrical equipment for diesel engines from other manufacturers.  Heavy involvement in main-line rail transportation began with a partnership with ALCo in 1940.  ALCo had been the second-largest producer of steam locomotives, and was moving into diesel traction, but needed help to compete with the newly-emergent GM Electro-Motive Division.  In the partnership, ALCo built the locomotive bodies and prime movers, while GE supplied the electrical gear as well as marketing and servicing infrastructure.