The 6-axle Class 99s can use the existing 25kV overhead line where available combined with their high-power, efficient engine to complete the journey where electrification does not exist.
“We look forward to supporting the delivery program for these locomotives ahead of introduction to service in 2025, providing further momentum to facilitate the modal shift from road to rail,” says Adam Cunliffe, Beacon CEO.
“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. We are very proud to go one step further with the development of Class 99," adds Inigo Parra, CEO of Stadler Valencia.
Class 99 represents the next generation of locomotives and provides a solution for all freight flows throughout the UK. Able to reach speeds of up to 120 km/h, the Class 99 can run on 25 kV AC electrified lines with a power of 6MW. In addition, they feature a high-power, low-emission Stage V engine for operation on non-electrified lines. Class 99 has a tractive effort of up to 500 kN.
“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 decarbonize the rail industry by 2040 in support of the UK’s net zero ambitions,” completes John Smith, CEO at GB Railfreight.
After delivery of Class 99’s Beacon will have over 500 locomotives in operation throughout Europe.
