Rail Operations Group (ROG) has commenced commercial services with the new Class 93 tri-mode locomotive following a series of loaded trials on the West Coast Main Line.
During the trials, the locomotive operated in diesel, battery, hybrid, and 25 kV AC electric modes, pulling loads of up to 1,800 tonnes. On the Shap incline, the locomotive departed from a standstill at Tebay loop and continued to climb while maintaining close to 60 mph in wet rail conditions. Additional testing took place at Crewe Basford Hall, where the locomotive departed in both battery and hybrid modes.
These operations were conducted in cooperation with Network Rail, Freightliner, and Stadler, the Swiss manufacturer responsible for the design and construction of the Class 93.
The first commercial train
ROG confirmed that the first commercial train move with Class 93 took place in early October, in partnership with rolling stock leasing company Angel Trains. This service included battery-powered shunting and train formation, enabling low-noise operation in the yard. According to ROG, over one-third of the journey was completed under AC electrification.
The Class 93 is the first freight locomotive in the UK to combine electric, diesel, and battery traction. ROG is the launch customer under a leasing agreement with Angel Trains. The design is based on the Stadler EuroDual platform but adapted to British standards and loading gauge.
The locomotive’s battery packs support low-emission operations in terminals and yards, while the diesel engine provides traction on non-electrified sections. The combination allows for continuous operations across mixed infrastructure without requiring locomotive changes.
Initial orders cover ten units, with further deliveries expected. The roll-out continues with additional operational trials in the coming weeks.
