The 6-axle Class 99 locomotives will be able to use existing 25kV overhead lines where available, in combination with their engine, to complete the journey where electrification does not exist.
"Rail freight is already a more sustainable alternative to moving goods by road, but the Class 99 will increase our industry’s levels of sustainability and propel us further towards meeting the UK government’s task to decarbonise the rail industry by 2040 in support of the UK’s net zero ambitions,” says John Smith, CEO at GB Railfreight.
Class 99 is the next generation of locomotive, providing a solution for all freight flows across the UK. Capable of speeds of up to 120 km/h, the Class 99 can run on 25 kV AC electrified lines with a power of 6 MW. They also have a Stage V engine for operation on non-electrified lines. Class 99 has a tractive effort of up to 500 kN.
“We look forward to supporting the delivery programme for these locomotives ahead of introduction to service in 2025, providing further momentum to facilitate modal shift from road to rail,” comments today's modal efforts Adam Cunliffe, Beacon CEO.
Following delivery of the Class 99's, Beacon will have over 500 locomotives in service across Europe.
“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,” concludes Inigo Parra, CEO of Stadler Valencia.
