Class 99 hybrid unveiled at Innotrans

GB Railfreight (GBRf) has unveiled its new hybrid bi-mode Class 99 locomotive at InnoTrans.

The Class 99 has been developed alongside Beacon Rail and manufacturer, Stadler and is designed to reduce emissions by up to 58% per journey compared to traditional diesel locomotives and as a hybrid, it can operate on both electrified and non-electrified sections of the rail network. Beacon Rail and GB Railfreight have commissioned 30 of these vehicles in an order that is the first of its type in the UK.

The Co’Co’ locomotive’s able to operate on a 25 kV AC electrified line and can reach speeds of up to 74mph (120km/h). Stadler is expecting that ETCS will soon be installed and also confirmed that Automatic Warning System (AWS) and Train Protection Warning System (TPWS) systems had already been fitted.

At the launch, John Smith, CEO of GBRf, emphasised the importance of this: "The Class 99 is a game-changer for UK rail freight. It offers our customers faster, more sustainable, and heavy-haul services across the country.

"Rail freight has long been the cleanest, safest and most efficient way of transporting goods and the Class 99s are a game-changing moment for the UK rail freight industry. These locomotives offer our customers the chance to run faster, wholly sustainable, heavy-haul services across length and breadth of the country.”

Adam Cunliffe, Chief Executive Officer of Beacon Rail, added: "Beacon is proud to introduce the Class 99 to the market; this is the result of a collaborative approach with our long-standing customer GB Railfreight and manufacturer Stadler. The Class 99 order underlines Beacon's drive to support the UK's journey towards a greener and more efficient rail network."

The Class 99 is being manufactured by Stadler in Valencia, Spain, and is expected to enter service in the UK in Spring 2025. The full fleet is anticipated to be operational by the end of 2026.