Locomotive builders send demonstrator locomotives out so customers can try them out, just like automobile dealers let you test drive a new car. Like new cars, these demonstrators normally include all the builder's latest accessories and control systems. Demonstrators usually run alone or in matched consists, so their performance can be isolated for comparison purposes. Most demonstrators traditionally have attractive, colorful paint schemes to make them stand out. Their engine numbers arc often chosen to have some sales significance: for example the year the locomotive was introduced (2009), or a new model number (AC4400). Multiple-unit consists arc often marked with the builder's initials and a number (EMD-1, EMD-2, EMD-3, or an A, B, C suffix). Ordinarily, the new locomotives arc subjected to three types of testing. First, they're assigned to a regular train so the demonstrator's performance over the road and fuel consumption can be measured and compared to the host railroad's regular locomotives. Second, a demonstrator may be run with a dynamometer car on a test train that usually consists of similar-size cars. This is done so the load can be adjusted to see how well the new unit performs on the railroad's ruling (steepest) grade. The dynamometer car records the performance data for later evaluation.
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