GB Railfreight (GBRf), in collaboration with Maritime Transport and DP World, has advanced the introduction of its new Class 99 bi-mode locomotive fleet. Testing has progressed with an intermodal service successfully operating between DP World’s London Gateway and Maritime’s Hams Hall Rail Freight Terminal in Birmingham. The trial train was first run on Wednesday, 17 June.
According to GBRf, the successful operation represents one of the final stages in the testing and commissioning programme ahead of full commercial operations for the Class 99 fleet. The Stadler-built dual-mode electro-diesel is due to enter full commercial service in July.
Electric and diesel capability
“The trial saw one of GBRf’s new locomotives hauling a live intermodal service along a key strategic freight corridor, demonstrating the Class 99’s capability in real operating conditions,” said GBRf in a statement. “The new fleet represents a major step forward for UK rail freight, combining electric and diesel capability to make the cleanest and safest way of moving goods around the country even cleaner and safer.”
The service demonstrated the capabilities of the locomotive, and also the efficiency of integrating intermodal operations from purpose-built quayside to purpose-built inland terminal. The run involved the cooperation of DP World at London Gateway, and Maritime Transport, who manage Hams Hall Rail Freight Terminal on behalf of the owners, ABP. The extensive trials are testing the operational flexibility of the Class 99s and their role in supporting more sustainable, resilient, and productive intermodal logistics across the UK. GBRf has put faith in the marque by ordering 30 units from Stadler.
Pragmatic solution
The trial came in the same week that the newest member of the Class 99 fleet, locomotive 99010, arrived at Avonmouth docks in Bristol. “This is one of the final milestones before the Class 99s enter full commercial service,” said John Smith, CEO of GB Railfreight. “It is fantastic to see an intermodal train hauled by one of these new locomotives on the network. The Class 99 represents a real step change for our industry, building on rail’s position as the cleanest and most productive way to move goods around the country.”
Britain’s rail network is somewhat hampered by discontinuous electrification. The ethos behind the Class 99, and other multiple energy source locomotives is to provide a pragmatic solution. There is interest from the rail and logistics industry at large in motive power solutions such as this.
“The successful operation into Hams Hall Rail Freight Terminal demonstrates the strength of collaboration across the rail freight sector,” said John Bailey, Managing Director – Intermodal at Maritime Transport (part of MSC through its rail subsidiary Medlog). “The important role our rail terminal network continues to play in connecting the UK’s major ports with inland markets, giving businesses greater access to efficient, low-carbon routes across the country.”