The 12 locomotives, which will all be delivered in 2023, will be used for Qube’s new interstate services between Melbourne and Sydney.
John Digney, Qube’s Director of Logistics and Infrastructure, said the purchase of 12 additional locomotives would enable the continued growth of the new service: “Since 2021, Qube has invested significantly in its rail business and grown its locomotive fleet by 32, enabling the efficient and reliable movement of freight via rail and helping get trucks off roads, which has the added benefit of reducing CO2 emissions.”
The 12 new units will be delivered in New South Wales, commencing August 2023.
Colin Kerelchuk, Senior Vice President of Progress Rail said: “We are pleased to support Qube with our EMD 4500 horsepower, Tier 3 emission capable, heavy-haul locomotives. With personnel located across Qube’s rail network, we are committed to providing best-in-class products and services.”
Qube’s Melbourne to Sydney service launched in November, initially providing three weekly round trips. It is the first interstate service to be handled under automation at the Qube Moorebank IMEX Terminal in Sydney.
