The locomotives are expected to be the first hybrid trains in North America. Officials at the news conference were asked how the new locomotives will improve Via Rail’s service. “It’s true there are obstacles with respect to reliable operation of Via Rail in certain parts of the country, particularly where Via Rail shares its rail routes with cargo trains,” MacKinnon said in French. “More broadly, we expect Via Rail to improve its customer service experience, and improve its reliability track record,” he said. MacKinnon said the deal will create 1,200 new full-time jobs and the hybrid trains will be built with Canadian-made batteries.