Two more Class 99 locomotives bound for GB Railfreight (GBRf) have arrived at Royal Portbury Dock, Bristol, highlighting efficient shipping operations and the role of ports in supporting the UK’s rail freight expansion. The locomotives arrive at Bristol Port by LNG-fuelled freighter.
On 27 November, locomotives 99003 and 99004 arrived at the Bristol Port Company’s Royal Portbury Dock aboard the LNG-powered Nereus Highway. Arrival aboard the versatile car carrier was another seamless operation for GBRf. It followed the June 2025 delivery of 99001 and 99002 aboard the freighter MV Constance.
Port operations under the spotlight
As with the previous delivery, the locomotives were offloaded using specialised lifts and transferred by Terberg tractor to the port railhead (there are no tracks directly at the quay). It’s an intricate logistics procedure that the port is geared up for and familiar with. Portbury positions itself as a facility able to interface between maritime and rail operations in bringing heavy and high-value equipment to the UK.
The Class 99 locomotives are part of GBRf’s strategy to expand and decarbonise freight operations. With dual-mode capability — electric on 25 kV AC lines and diesel on non-electrified routes — they offer flexibility for the UK’s rail network, helping to reduce emissions and improve cargo transport efficiency.
Supporting rail freight growth
“The new locomotives will enable businesses to transport freight more efficiently,” noted John Smith, CEO of GBRf. “With both renewable fuels and electric capability, our Class 99s are built for a changing network and to meet evolving customer needs.”
“Receiving 99003 and 99004 is a welcome pre-Christmas gift, mused Alex Kirk, Commercial Director. “These locomotives herald a rail freight revolution in 2026, reinforcing the synergy between shipping, ports, and rail operators.”
These deliveries underline the importance of port infrastructure in supporting the UK’s rail freight ambitions. The UK government aims for a targeted 75% increase in rail freight by 2050. The efficient integration of maritime and rail logistics will be crucial to moving goods sustainably and reliably. There’s more to the transition than just moving more boxes. There are 26 more of these locomotives for a start.