The EMD SW1500 was a 1,500 hp diesel locomotive intended for switching service and built by General Motors' Electro-Motive Division between June 1966 and January 1974. 808 examples were constructed. It was closely related to the less powerful EMD SW1000 model, forming a line of switchers powered by the new EMD 645 engine. The SW1500 replaced the SW1200 in the EMD product line, and was in turn replaced by the MP15DC.

The SW1500 was a substantially bulkier locomotive than the SW1200, with a much bulkier frame, larger cab and bigger hood. In many respects it was approaching a road switcher in abilities. While the SW1500 came as standard with AAR switcher trucks, the majority of them were delivered with the optional Flexicoil trucks which permitted speeds up to 60 mph. The SW1500 was, in fact, often operated as a road-switcher for branchline service, and continues in this role today.

Features
Features:
Detailed cab interior
Late coupler cut levers with looped handles
Signal hoses with silver glad hands unless noted
Front and rear trainline hoses with silver glad hands
Drop steps unless noted
MU stands
Separately applied wire grab irons
See through radiator intake grille
Hood mounted bell with bracket
Exhaust hatch
Exhaust stacks
Leslie RSM-31 single-chime horn with cab face bracket
See through cab windows
Low or high mounted windshield wipers per prototype
Rectangular or oval builders plate where appropriate
Detailed 1,100 gallon fuel tank
Separately applied Air tank
Printed numberboards
Fine scale handrails
Fully assembled and ready-to-run
McHenry scale knuckle spring couplers
DCC ready with Quick Plug technology
Highly-detailed, injection molded body
Painted and printed for realistic decoration
Bi-directional constant lighting so headlight brightness remains consistent
All-wheel drive with precision gears for smooth and quiet operation
All-wheel electrical pickup
5-pole skew wound motor with flywheels and multi-link drivetrain for trouble-free operation
Wheels with RP25 contours operate on Code 70, 75, 83, and 100 rail
Window packaging for easy viewing
Interior plastic blister safely holds the model for convenient storage
Minimum radius: 18"