GB Railfreight is planning to order a fleet of main line electro-diesel locomotives with a modular design which would facilitate future replacement of the diesel engine with a battery or hydrogen fuel cell module.
Rail Business UK understands that advanced negotiations are underway with Stadler for bi-mode Co-Co locomotives to be supplied from its Valencia plant in Spain. A framework contract covering up to 50 locos is envisaged, with a firm order for an initial 20 and options for 30.
Designated Class 99, which was previously used for railway-owned ships, the locomotives would support GB Railfreight’s decarbonisation efforts by enabling the use of 25 kV 50 Hz electrification where available, retaining diesel operation on lines which the operator does not expect will be electrified in the near future.