The TEM19 locomotive was designed by the Russian Institute of Research, Design and Technological Studies and built by Bryansk Engineering Plant, a subsidiary of Transmashholding.

The gas reciprocating engine has a modular design and a multi-functional microprocessor control and monitoring system. The locomotive runs on liquefied natural gas, which is less expensive than diesel and produces fewer pollutants. It is also expected to be cheaper to maintain than a diesel.

Around 300 hours of tests will be conducted. Testing is expected to be concluded by the end of the year paving the way for production of pilot batches.