I was told directly that they were working on this but it is a far off project. Former emplyees have already stated the idea was counced around during development of the SD45-2. It would be interesting to see if the early prototypes had a full lenth frame and the shorter frame came about after deciding to go with the SD40-2.
They have many projects ahead of the SD40-2.... FP7, FL9, U18B, Cab Forward, so I garentee no one will "anounce" the SD40-2 in writing at this time. But I am certain that it is coming from what the show reps told me.
On the other hand, I do wish it was Atlas who would do them. They would produce treaded walkways and non-glue handrails. This is important on an engine so popular with the secondary market. These would be custom painted in qualtity like the GP7/9 or LL SW1200 have been.
