The SD70M-2 is a DC traction version of the SD70ACe, and the two models are nearly identical in every other respect. Production commenced in 2005. Like the SD70ACe the SD70M-2 models are equipped with the 16-710G3C-T2 prime mover which is rated at 4,300 horsepower. One of the main differences in the SD70M-2/SD70ACes from previous SD70s is the addition of Air Start. This loud burst of air in the start sequence is not present on most earlier EMD locomotives. All SD70M-2s and SD70ACes, except for the ones bought by CITX, are equipped with the Airchime model K5LLA air horn and an electronic bell.