Wabtec, Progress Rail End Legal Battle Over Locomotive Market Competition

Key Details Wabtec and Progress Rail have settled their antitrust dispute without admission of liability from either party. The lawsuit stemmed from Wabtec's 2019 acquisition of GE Transportation for $11 billion, which Progress Rail claimed created unfair market dominance in diesel-electric long-haul freight locomotives. What Was at Stake Progress Rail, owned by Caterpillar, alleged Wabtec engaged in exclusionary practices including restricting data compatibility, imposing costs on competitors, and making false statements about Progress Rail leaving the market. The Delaware federal court dismissed antitrust claims in 2025 but allowed breach-of-contract allegations to proceed before the settlement. Why It Matters This settlement affects the competitive landscape for locomotive suppliers serving Class I railroads. Both companies now acknowledge their continued roles as suppliers of long-haul freight locomotives and cab components. The resolution removes uncertainty for fleet operators who depend on reliable access to quality locomotive equipment and components from multiple manufacturers.