Bristol Port served as the UK’s gateway yesterday for the arrival of the first of two new Class 99 locomotives, which docked aboard the MV Constance following its journey from Germany.
This marks a pivotal milestone in the process to build and supply 30 bi-mode Co’Co’ locomotives for Beacon Rail and GB Railfreight.
Their arrival in the UK represents a significant step forward in the project to deliver a 30-strong fleet of state-of-the art vehicles set to transform freight transport. The Class 99s will provide a range of economic and environmental benefits, underscoring Stadler’s green credentials and signalling its commitment to support net zero.
Having arrived by ship to Bristol Port this week, the locomotives will soon be taken to Leicester, where they will be maintained by Stadler Rail Services. There they will undergo a rigorous programme of testing and commissioning before entering commercial service by the end of 2025.
The rest of the fleet will begin arriving in the UK in late 2025 and continue throughout 2026.
Based on the proven EURODUAL locomotive concept, the Class 99 has been adapted for use on the UK railway network and features a dual drive system. This enables the locomotive to operate in purely electric as well as in diesel-electric mode, allowing it to run on both non-electrified and on electrified lines, potentially replacing diesel-powered locomotives and helping cut carbon emissions on the UK railway.
The Class 99 can operate on a 25 kV AC electrified line, has a power of 6,000 kW at the wheel and features a high-power low-emissions Stage-V engine. With an impressive tractive effort of 500 kN, it can reach speeds of up to 120 km/h, boasting high hauling capability and performance.
The cab is designed with the driver in mind, and is a safe, modern and comfortable working environment. A centrally positioned seat in combination with the huge front window ensures excellent visibility. State-of-the-art cameras provide direct views of pantographs, shunting zones and the area in front of the locomotive. The two protection systems required on British rail networks, AWS and TPWS have been fitted; ETCS will soon be installed.
Iñigo Parra, CEO of Stadler Valencia, said:
“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. These vehicles will take freight transport to the next level, making the rail industry greener and heightening efficiency overall.”
John Smith OBE, Chief Executive Officer of GB Railfreight, 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."
Adam Cunliffe, Chief Executive Officer of Beacon Rail, said:
“The arrival of the Class 99s marks an important step forward for rail freight in the UK. They reflect Beacon’s commitment to investing in modern, efficient, and lower-carbon transport solutions that are built to meet the needs of an evolving industry and changing world.”
David Brown, CEO of Bristol Port, commented:
"We’re proud to play our part in the supply chain by welcoming such a transformative piece of rail technology through our port. Thanks to the excellent coordination with our partners, we were able to ensure a smooth and efficient operation, facilitating the arrival of a groundbreaking locomotive. We’re especially proud that this locomotive will leave the port via our rail network, demonstrating our role as a true multimodal hub."
The Bristol Port Compamy is exhibiting at Multimodal on stand 4022
