GB Railfreight (GBRf) has introduced locomotive 66316 into service, completing the final stage of a series of conversions under its leasing agreement with Akiem.
The locomotive has undergone a full technical upgrade, including engine overhaul, crankshaft rework, and replacement of several key components such as turbocharger, alternator, compressor, and bearings. Additional work involved adapting the locomotive for UK operations through installation of GSM-R, TPWS4, air conditioning, and passive noise reduction systems.
Originally delivered in HHPI grey, 66316 carries temporary GBRf branding ahead of the upcoming RHTT season. A full repaint is scheduled later.
The handover of 66316 concludes the fleet expansion plan announced in 2023, when GBRf signed a 10-year leasing agreement with Akiem. The contract, valued at approximately GBP 25 million (about EUR 29.3 million), included the transfer and conversion of 11 Class 77 and Class 66 locomotives from continental Europe. Deliveries were carried out between January 2023 and May 2024, with all units adapted for UK rail operations at EMD’s Doncaster and Longport facilities.
These locomotives have been assigned to various traffic segments, including intermodal, energy, construction, infrastructure, and waste logistics. The project has supported GBRf’s operational flexibility during ongoing network demands and seasonal requirements such as the autumn RHTT schedules.
With 66316 now in traffic, GBRf has completed the integration of the Akiem-sourced locomotives into its UK fleet. The units supplement GBRf’s existing traction ahead of future transitions toward newer locomotive classes, such as the introduction of Class 99.
