UVZ says that the two companies expect to deliver demonstrator units for performance testing and certification in Russia before the end of 2014.

Under the MoU, UVZ and EMD will also look at establishing a joint engineering team to develop a 3355kW mainline diesel-electric locomotive using EMD ac traction systems and EMD's 16-710 diesel engine. The two companies aim to achieve 50% Russian content in the manufacture of these locomotives. 

The deal could also see EMD latest natural gas technologies introduced to the 1520mm-gauge market.

UVZ says it is working towards concluding a definitive agreement with EMD in the coming months.