U12A

The U12A is a type of diesel-electric locomotive built by General Electric. It was part of GE's Universal Series, a line of diesel locomotives that were produced from the 1950s through the 1970s. The U12A model was specifically designed for export markets and was characterized by its 12-cylinder engine, providing 1,200 horsepower. These locomotives were often used in industrial settings and for light-duty mainline service.

The U12A featured a standard hood unit carbody design common to many locomotives of its era. Its modular construction facilitated easier maintenance and repair, a key selling point for GE's Universal Series. While not as widely produced as some other Universal Series models, the U12A found service with various railways in South America and other regions. Its robustness and relatively simple mechanical design contributed to its operational longevity in the demanding environments where it was deployed. The locomotive's primary function was typically freight hauling and switching operations.