Wabtec Corp. Stock Price, News & Analysis

Wabtec Corporation (NYSE: WAB) will announce its Q1 2022 results on April 27, 2022, before the U.S. markets open. A conference call for analysts and investors will be held at 8:30 a.m. ET on the same day to discuss the earnings. Interested parties can listen via webcast on Wabtec’s official website, and an audio replay will be available shortly after the call.

Wabtec is a global leader in transportation solutions for the freight and transit rail industries, aiming for a zero-emission rail system.

Wabtec Corporation (NYSE: WAB) has secured a multi-year order from Norfolk Southern (NYSE: NSC) to modernize 330 locomotives, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Each modernized unit will cut carbon emissions by over 500 tons annually. This initiative, part of Norfolk Southern's strategy to achieve a 42% emissions intensity reduction by 2034, will revamp older locomotives, resulting in a 25% boost in fuel efficiency and a 40% increase in reliability. Since 2015, Wabtec has updated over 1,100 locomotives, achieving a total emissions reduction of more than 1.4 million tons.

Wabtec Corporation (NYSE: WAB) held its 2022 Investor Day, outlining a comprehensive five-year strategy focused on significant margin expansion, double-digit EPS growth, and strong cash generation. Key initiatives include a planned integration phase, targeting $75 million to $90 million in benefits, and disciplined capital allocation. Leadership emphasized their commitment to enhancing shareholder value through innovative technologies and operational efficiencies. Wabtec aims for mid-single-digit organic growth and a strong cash flow conversion of over 90%.

Union Pacific Railroad (NYSE: UNP) will implement a higher biodiesel blend in locomotives obtained from Wabtec (NYSE: WAB) as part of its environmental strategy. This collaboration aims to boost low-carbon fuel usage to 10% by 2025 and 20% by 2030. Initial testing of B20 biodiesel and R55 renewable diesel will begin in California in Q2 2022, contributing towards a 26% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and a net-zero target by 2050. Both companies emphasize the importance of sustainable fuel solutions in the rail industry.

The Wabtec Foundation has announced a donation of $100,000 to aid Ukrainian refugee relief efforts. This contribution will be shared equally between the International Rescue Committee and World Central Kitchen, both active in providing support to the over 1.5 million civilians displaced by the conflict. Wabtec's President and CEO, Rafael Santana, emphasized the importance of global solidarity in times of crisis. The Foundation’s initiative, aimed at fostering sustainable community support, reflects Wabtec's ongoing commitment to societal welfare.

Wabtec Corporation (NYSE: WAB) reported a strong fourth quarter for 2021, with GAAP earnings per share (EPS) of $1.02, a 121.7% increase year-over-year, and adjusted EPS of $1.18, up 20.4%. Sales reached $2.07 billion, reflecting a 2.4% growth compared to the previous year. The company announced a share buyback program of $750 million and raised its quarterly dividend by 25%. Full-year 2021 cash flow from operations hit a record $1.07 billion, with an operating cash flow conversion rate of 102%. Looking ahead, Wabtec expects 2022 sales between $8.30 billion and $8.60 billion.

Union Pacific Railroad (NYSE: UNP) announced plans to acquire 20 battery-electric locomotives for yard operations, marking a significant investment of over $100 million in battery technology. This initiative aims to create the world's largest carrier-owned battery-electric locomotive fleet. The locomotives will be tested in California and Nebraska for performance under varying weather conditions, targeting net zero emissions by 2050. The project is part of Union Pacific's broader Climate Action Plan, which aims for a 26% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030.

On January 28, 2022, Union Pacific Railroad (UNP) announced its purchase of 10 FLXdrive battery-electric locomotives from Wabtec Corporation (WAB). This $20 million investment is the largest of its kind by a North American railroad, aiming to enhance rail yard infrastructure and significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions. The locomotives will provide zero-emission operations and reduce carbon output by 4,000 tons annually. Union Pacific plans to reduce its GHG emissions by 26% by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050, showcasing its commitment to environmental sustainability.