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GP30 Sunset (P-14)

The GP30 of EMD, the Electo-Motive Division of General Motors, was a benchmark in the history of diesel-electric motive power. Produced for only 29 months in 1961-1963, the 2250 HP GP30 was EMD's quick answer for the 2500 HP U25B introduced at the same time by new domestic competitor General Electric. The GP30 was originally to be called the GP22, in line with EMD's previous designations of horsepower (such as the GP20 and SD24), but the model designation was later changed to GP30, keyed to a touted "30 improvements" as a competitive response to the higher numeral in GE's U25B. The GP30, introduced at GM's Technical Center near Detroit, rather than at La Grange, IL where it was built, had an all-new sealed carbody and a centralized air system and was larger and longer than previous models. With the unique top cowling blister flowing back from the cab, the GP30 is easily distinguishable from other diesels, before or since.

The 1980's spelled the beginning of the end for the GP30, as Class 1 railroad rid themselves of their early, less fuel-efficient diesels. As the sun sets in a golden western sky, one last warrior charges past, of the model they call GP30.