No more Class 768s to be prepared for Orion Logistics for the time being
PLANS TO introduce more Class 768 bi-mode Flex units have been put on hold by Orion Logistics following the closure of Wabtec’s Loughborough facility.
The four-car trains are converted from redundant Class 319 electric multiple units, with diesel gen-sets fitted under each driving car. Two have so far been modified: 768001 (ex-319010) and 768002 (ex-319009). Orion told Railways Illustrated that initially there were plans for 10 Class 768s and eight Class 319s for its logistics fleet.
However, the closure of Loughborough, combined with the expected lead time for any future conversions that would likely be carried out at Wabtec’s Doncaster works, means it would be September 2022 before any more are available.
Currently the operator is focussing on ensuring reliability of the existing fleet on its first service between Willesden PRDC and Shieldmuir, and this will take priority over any more conversions.
Initially Orion used 57310 to haul 319373 and 768001 on these services. Eventually Class 319s will be used on this route, with 319377 and 319380 nearly complete at Arlington Fleet Services, and 319441 set to follow. The trains have their entire passenger interior removed, including toilets and partitions, and are equipped with strengthened floors to enable the carrying of freight. Each vehicle has a 12-tonne payload.
Orion plans to use 768001 and 768002 on a new service from Mossend to the former oil terminal at Bedworth.
Before that service is due to start, in the second quarter of 2022, Orion will use 768002 for various trials, including the dropping and raising of its pantograph while travelling.
Orion has not ruled out the introduction of more Class 768s, but also told Railways Illustrated that with the first Class 93 tri-mode locomotives due for delivery in January 2023, there could yet be the possibility that the 319s identified for possible use could yet be leased and used as hauled vans.