Two unloaded, and 28 to go. The first examples of a new freight workhorse have landed. Bristol Port in South West England served as the UK’s gateway for the arrival of the first of two new Class 99 locomotives, described by their eventual users as state-of-the-art, poised to deliver both economic and environmental benefits across the British rail network.
The locomotives arrived at Bristol on 9 June aboard the MV Constance following their journey from Germany. They were unloaded from the 86m-long Gibraltar-flagged vessel over the following 22 hours in port. The German Stadler-built Class 99 has been specifically engineered for the UK with its dual drive system, allowing operation in fully electric and diesel-electric modes, giving it the flexibility to run on both electrified and non-electrified lines.
Moved under their own power
Britain’s mix of provision for electric traction makes the hybrid capability of the Class 99 a useful prime mover. It’s an alternative to traditional diesel locomotives, say the manufacturers, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and more sustainable rail operations. The locomotives are part of an order of 30 units for GB Railfreight. GBRf is planning ahead to respond to UK Government’s ambitions to grow rail freight significantly by 2050.
Bristol (Avonmouth) is rail-served, but the quay landing required a short road transfer to the railhead. The locomotives are moving under their own power (scheduled to leave the port on 17 June) for final certification at Leicester in the English Midlands. The Class 99 can operate on a 25 kV AC electrified line, has a power of 6,000 kW at the wheel and features a high-power, low-emissions Stage-V engine. They are capable of a tractive effort of 500 kN, and can reach speeds of up to 120 km/h.
Transport their freight more efficiently
“We’re proud to play our part in the supply chain by welcoming such a transformative piece of rail technology through our port,” said David Brown, CEO at The Bristol Port Company. “Thanks to the excellent coordination with our partners, we were able to ensure a smooth and efficient operation, facilitating the arrival of a groundbreaking locomotive. We’re especially proud that this locomotive will leave the port via our rail network, demonstrating our role as a true multimodal hub.” The port has also been exploring innovations like carbon capture operations.
At Leicester, Stadler Rail Services will carry out maintenance, testing, and commissioning before the unit enters commercial service for GB Railfreight by the end of 2025. “The new locomotives will enable businesses to transport their freight more efficiently,” said John Smith, CEO of GBRf. “With both renewable fuels and electric capability, our Class 99s are built for a changing network and to meet the evolving demands of our customers.” The remainder of the Class 99 fleet is scheduled to arrive at Bristol Port starting late 2025, with deliveries continuing into 2026.
