Union Pacific Railroad expects to cut nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 80 percent at rail yards in Texas by using 111 new technology locomotives in 2006 and 2007.

The locomotives will be used in rail yards in the Houston/Galveston, Dallas/Fort Worth and San Antonio markets, the Omaha, Neb.-based company said.

The low-emission locomotives will use up to 40 percent less fuel than traditional locomotives, Union Pacific said.

"Our new low-emission yard locomotives are the next chapter in Union Pacific´s voluntary efforts to reduce emissions," said Bob Grimaila, vice president of environment and safety.