GBRF orders 30 new Class 99 bimode locomotives from Stadler
AFTER MONTHS of speculation, GB Railfreight has finally confirmed that it has ordered 30 new hybrid bi-mode Class 99 locomotives and associated spare parts from Stadler, with the first of the new fleet expected to enter service from 2025.
The fleet, which is being financed by Beacon Rail, is based on the Eurodual six-axle locomotives that Stadler has built for the continental European market.
The Class 99 is the latest design to be developed by Stadler for use in the UK rail sector, following on from the Class 68s and 88s in use with Direct Rail Services, and also the 30 tri-mode Class 93 locomotives currently under construction for Rail Operations Group.
However, the Class 68s, 88s and 93s all feature four axles, whereas the Class 99 will have six axles, allowing it to haul heavy freight services at main line speeds.
The company describes the Class 99 as “a versatile Co-co locomotive, adapted to the British gauge and specifications, combining 25kv AC electric and diesel operating modes. “It represents a new generation of locomotive that offers rail operators many economic and environmental benefits and underscores Stadler’s green credentials.
“Able to reach speeds of up to 120 km/h, the powerful machines can run on 25 kv AC electrified lines with a power of 6000kw at wheel. In addition, they feature a high-power low-emissions Stage-v engine, allowing them to operate on non-electrified lines. The Class 99 locomotives boast an outstanding tractive effort of up to 500kn, high hauling capability and performance. They also offer optimal visibility and an excellent working environment for the drivers, including ergonomic desks.” GBRF states that the new locomotives are expected to cut carbon emissions by about 50% per journey, reducing the company’s carbon footprint by 428 tonnes per day across its intermodal services operating along partially-electrified lines.
“The new Class 99s are expected to replace the Class 66 diesels on intermodal services, taking advantage of electrified sections of the rail network to reduce their existing emission levels.
GBRF chief executive officer John Smith said: “Rail freight is not just the backbone of the UK’S economy, it is now leading the push to decarbonise supply chains. Our new locomotives will immediately make a huge impact on reducing CO2 emissions, improve choice for businesses and consumers, and cut their carbon footprints when purchasing goods. If scaled, with the help of the UK Government to electrify more routes, the Class 99 locomotive can play an even greater role in helping supply chains and business operations become significantly more climate-friendly.”
Stadler Valencia chief executive officer Inigo Parra said: “Stadler has extensive experience in the UK locomotive market. Over recent years we have introduced with Beacon the Class 68 diesel-electric locomotive and the Class 88 bi-mode locomotive.
“We are very proud to go one step further with the development of the Class 99 – a versatile, high-performance locomotive that will provide environmentally-friendly and cost-effective rail transport services.”