The C44aci model locomotives built by UGL Rail at Broadmeadow adopted the design from the NR Class.

A depot was built alongside the Newport to Sunshine railway in the western Melbourne suburb of Spotswood to cater for this.

The class could also not lead on the Victorian standard gauge network due to the lack of suitable radio equipment.

A truck drove into the side of the NR during low visibility conditions and the subsequent accident saw 41 freight wagons of the train land on top of NR33.

[13] On 24 December 2019, 7MP5 hauled by NR80/NR59 collided with the rear of 2K66 Watco/CBH grain train, at Jumperkine, Western Australia, which resulted in a driver fatality.

[17] The NR Class cab was designed taking into consideration the results of an extended consultative process with the end users.

[18] The design is a long hood unit locomotive, with only one cab but two separate sets of controls, which allow it be driven either "A" or "B" end leading.

This locomotive had to pass all tests, such as being able to shunt if required, drive "long end leading" if needed, and allow drivers to do checks on fuel, brakes, and sand.