The South African class 36-000 are light diesel locomotives which were designed by GE for shunting and freight pickup duties and deliver 1,173 hp. Production took place in South Africa by the General Electric-Dorman Long Locomotive Group (GE-DL). 36-001 to 36-100 were completed between 1975 and 1978, with 36-101 to 36-124 following in 1981. The 36-000 must not be mixed up with the class 36-200 of the same dimensions and power class that was based on the EMD SW1002.

They have a single cab, but this contains two driving desks for operation in both directions. The large windows in combination with the lack of an AC unit often lead to problems in the South African heat, so some locomotives could either be seen with improvised sun shades or with roof extensions added in the depot.