CP is driving towards a supply chain model capable of loading, transporting and unloading 8,500-foot long, power-on, unit trains with a minimum of 134 hopper cars of export grain in Canada.
8500’ High Efficiency Product (HEP) Train
The 8,500-foot train model will carry a minimum of 134 grain hopper cars based on industry-average car lengths, which is 20% more grain than 112 car grain trains. As CP and the industry move towards shorter, higher-capacity cars, CP will be able to fit more cars and more grain on each 8,500-foot train. The end result is more grain transported to market more efficiently than ever before.
download an infographic of our new, highly efficient hopper cars
Grain elevator infrastructure
CP's investment in longer sidings and upgrades to its track network enable these longer trains to move seamlessly between elevators and ports. Elevators capable of receiving an intact 8,500-foot train to have the empty hoppers placed clear of our main track operations, loaded and made ready for pick up once again all clear for CP’s main track, providing the best use of capacity to move more grain.
CP's investment in longer sidings and upgrades to its track network enable these longer trains to move seamlessly between elevators and ports.
Port terminal infrastructure
Through infrastructure investment and collaboration with grain companies and port operators, this enhanced train model allows railways, elevators, and ports to increase throughput and better utilize resources. Grain elevator and port terminal infrastructure is being built and expanded to load and unload 8,500-foot trains clear of the mainline track.