Bill K. wrote: > > It would seem to resemble a combination of the LIRR things and the newer > Amtrak P42's, both of which are more or less a mildly streamlined block on > wheels. It is a shame that these modern designers don't seem to be able to > think past the streamlined brick - I would think with some imagination you > could have a more tradtional layout and still look modern at the same time. Dear Bill and Group, I have said this before -- a unit like this could indeed have a PA/FA or E/F unit style cab. However, today's industrial designers seem to think that these designs are too dated, too art deco. I very much disagree, except for the _very_ art deco headlight grille on the PA/FA. When I see photos of these classic locomotives, it does NOT bring images of vintage automobiles, toasters, or refrigerators to mind. As far as I can tell, the current concept of "modern sleek" seen in the F59PHI and other locomotives seemed to originate with the artist's conception of the "Marlboro Unlimited" train back in the early 90s. That's the first time I saw a rendering of what we now know as an F59PHI. Although the Marlboro train never operated, several locomotives and cars were produced -- and it's not too much of a leap to assume Philip Morris paid big bucks to make sure the locomotives looked just like their artist's concept. I do wish we'd see the end of "bricks on wheels," but unless GE and EMD hire like-minded aesthetic designers for their locomotives, we're not likely to see a change. Too bad I don't have the chutzpah to call their division managers and suggest that they hire me. Anyone care to try? - -- Alan <quahog_@_sprint.ca> ------------------------------
This HTML page is © 2000-2009 Blue Moon Online System and The Railfan Network
This page and the data contained therein may not be reproduced
for any form of commercial use without the explicit permission
of J. Henry Priebe Jr. or his duly authorized agent.