The broad flanks of diesel locomotives have been used to draw attention for more than seven decades. The intent typically is to introduce new services or technologies, develop a public awareness, build community support, and to pay tribute to the past.

One of the earliest examples is the Freedom Train of 1947, which criss-crossed the United States with historic documents and artifacts, in an effort to build national pride and create a stronger interest in the history of the country. The most recent example perhaps is Canadian National's "heritage" program. It features custom-painted locomotives that wear the names and colors of the 20,000-mile railroad's predecessors.

New: 1 January 2021