The word locomotive can be split into two so as to convey its actual meaning. "Loco" means from a place and "motive" means "causing motion". A locomotive provides the power that drives the train on the tracks which makes it possible for us to move cargo as well as for passengers to travel from one place to another.

A diesel electric locomotive is a locomotive that is powered by a diesel engine which in turn is connected to an electric generator. Electricity is thus, generated and stored in the batteries which is used to power the electric motors which in turn are running the train. The diesel electric locomotives are superior or more advantageous as compared to the earlier versions in several ways and that is why they are favored today.

The diesel electric machinery is lighter and also costs less making it an economically viable option in fact, a profitable proposition. The recurring cost on the diesel electric locomotive is much less as the wear and tear on the parts time is less on a comparative basis and so they do not have to be replaced very often, if at all.

In today's times when pollution levels have increased so much that they have started having several adverse effects on the environment as well as on our health, an option that is environment friendly is the need of the hour. The diesel electric locomotive is highly efficient. With almost no pollution it is suitable in the present times considering the state of our environment and how important it is to have a pollution free transport. The diesel electric locomotive is an option that can be trusted as the chances of failure are much less than other alternatives. The parts do not require frequent replacements and so the cost of travelling on these diesel electric locomotives is low.

The diesel electric locomotive is thus, a product of superior technology and combines the merits of both diesel and electric technology.

With the several benefits that it has that make it a viable option in every way, the diesel electric locomotive which is now a tried and tested formula is definitely here to stay for a long time to come.