British Rail Class 99 Heavy Haul Electric Locomotive
UK · 2022 (agreement), 2025 (planned entry into service) · Estimated £120 million (for 30 units)
The judgement call
Account-gated at launchThe decision to procure dual-mode locomotives reflects a strategic shift towards more sustainable and flexible freight operations, aiming to reduce reliance on diesel-only traction. - The Class 99's superior tractive effort at low speeds compared to the Class 66, despite a less powerful diesel engine, highlights the importance of optimized power delivery and traction control systems in heavy haul applications. - The planned use of HVO biofuels in service demonstrates a commitment to reducing carbon emissions in rail freight. - The project underscores the trend of replacing older, less efficient diesel locomotives with modern, more environmentally friendly and versatile dual-mode units.
Key engineering challenges
Designing a heavy-haul dual-mode locomotive with high tractive effort to outperform existing diesel locomotives (Class 66) in both electric and diesel modes. - Integrating a powerful diesel engine (1,790 kW Cummins QSK50) with 25 kV AC electric capabilities within the Euro Dual platform. - Ensuring compliance with Stage 5 emissions standards for the diesel engine. - Achieving operational flexibility to haul heavy freight trains on both electrified and non-electrified lines.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- Beacon Rail (owner); GB Railfreight (operator)
- Lead contractor
- Stadler Rail
- Lead designers
- Stadler Rail
- Project type
- new build; vehicle/fleet programme
- Scale
- 30 locomotives; Dual-mode (25 kV AC electric, diesel); Max speed: 75 mph (120 km/h); Electric power: 6,170 kW (8,270 hp); Diesel power: 1,790 kW (2,400 hp); Tractive effort: up to 500 kN (110,000 lbf)
- Disciplines
- Mechanical; Electrical; Systems; Software
- Standards & frameworks
- Stage 5 emissions standards; AWS; TPWS; ETCS (planned)
Sources: British Rail Class 99 - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Rail_Class_99) - Stadler Rail: Class 99 for Beacon Rail (https://www.stadlerrail.com/solutions/references/class99-beacon-rail-and-gb-railfreight) - Rail Engineer: Electrified freight with Class 99s (https://www.railengineer.co.uk/electrified-freight-with-class-99s/)