UK: The first two of 30 Stadler Class 99 electro-diesel locomotives ordered by Beacon Rail for use by GB Railfreight arrived at the port of Bristol on June 10.
They will undergo testing and commissioning in Leicester, where Stadler will maintain the Co-Co locos, with entry into service planned by the end of 2025. The rest of the fleet will arrive from late 2025 and throughout 2026.
The Class 99 was ordered in 2022 as the first electro-diesel locomotives capable of hauling heavy freight at main line speeds on the UK network. It is a variant of the Stadler EuroDual electro-diesel locomotive family, adapted for the narrower and lower British loading gauge.
The Co-Co locos will help lower emissions by replacing Class 66 diesel locos on partly electrified routes, with a maximum speed of 120 km/h and power at wheel of 6 000 kW under 25 kV 50 Hz electrification. The diesel engine meets Stage IV emissions standards.
GB Railfreight said the cab with a centrally positioned seat has a ‘huge’ front window offering excellent visibility. There are cameras providing direct views of pantographs, shunting zones and the area in front of the locomotive. The AWS and TPWS national safety systems are fitted, and ETCS will soon be installed.
‘The arrival of the first two Class 99s in the country that will become their home represents a critical milestone in a project that will deliver a host of benefits to the UK economy’, said Iñigo Parra, CEO of Stadler Valencia. ‘These vehicles will take freight transport to the next level, making the rail industry greener and heightening efficiency overall.’
GB Railfreight CEO John Smith said ‘the new locomotives will enable businesses to transport their freight more efficiently. With both renewable fuels and electric capability, our Class 99s are built for a changing network and to meet the evolving demands of our customers.’
One of the two Class 99 locos was displayed the InnoTrans 2024 trade fair in Berlin, before going to the Velim test facility in the Czech Republic.
