GB Railfreight (GBRf) has taken delivery of the next pair of its Class 99 bi-mode locomotives, marking a major step in the expansion of sustainable rail freight in the UK. The units arrived at Royal Portbury Dock on 27 November ahead of testing and entry into service early next year.
The Peterborough-based GBRf has welcomed locomotives 99003 and 99004 at the Bristol Port Company’s Royal Portbury Dock, arriving safely on board the LNG-powered Nereus Highway. The locomotives will now undergo a series of UK-based tests before joining 99001 and 99002, which are nearing readiness for service.
Innovations for operators and crews
Based on Stadler’s Eurodual platform and adapted for the UK network, the Class 99s feature dual-drive capability, allowing them to operate on both electrified 25 kV AC lines and non-electrified routes using a high-power, low-emissions diesel engine. With 6,000 kW at the wheel and a tractive effort of 500 kN, these locomotives are designed for heavy freight performance and greater efficiency, supporting the UK government’s ambition to grow rail freight by 75% by 2050.
The Class 99 offers enhanced visibility from a centrally positioned cab seat, supported by cameras providing direct views of pantographs, shunting zones, and the line ahead. Safety systems AWS and TPWS are factory-fitted, and ETCS installation will follow.
Industry leadership gets an early Santa present
“The new locomotives will enable businesses to transport freight more efficiently,” said John Smith, CEO of GB Railfreight, “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.”
“Receiving 99003 and 99004 is a welcome pre-Christmas gift,” GBRf Commercial Director Alex Kirk added. “These locomotives deliver performance and environmental benefits for our customers and herald a rail freight revolution in 2026.”
The locomotives were transferred from the quay to the port railhead using a Port of Bristol Terberg tractor, reflecting the precision required in handling large, heavy rail equipment at ports without direct rail access. This follows a similar operation for 99001 and 99002 in June 2025.