GB Railfreight introduce three Class 66 locomotives to the UK rail network
Posted: 4 June 2019 | Global Railway Review | 1 comment
GB Railfreight (GBRf) has announced three Class 66 locomotives are to be leased from Beacon Rail Leasing and introduced to the UK rail network from Sweden.
The locomotives T66 403/4/5 will become 66 790/791/792 and mark GBRf’s continued growth and investment in its fleet. These locomotives are the most widely operated modern freight locomotives in the European market and will further strengthen GBRf’s already reliable fleet.
GBRf have considerable experience bringing locomotives from Europe to the UK. Previous conversions include 66 747/8/9/5/51 from European to UK specification with the assistance of Electro Motive Diesels (EMD).
Prior to entering service, the locomotives will undergo upgrades in Gothenburg before being shipped to Immingham and transferred to EMD’s Longport Facility for conversion to UK specifications.
The locomotives will have Train Bourne safety systems, air conditioning, as well as cab and system specific reliability improvements made. In addition, they will all receive GBRf livery and once fully upgraded, the Class 66s will then enter service.
John Smith, Managing Director of GB Railfreight, said: “I am delighted to announce that three Class 66 locomotives are being added to our fleet. These locos are incredibly reliable and will assist us in delivering the best possible service now and into the future. This move is demonstrative of why GBRf are leading the way in the rail freight sector. It’s a fantastic addition to our offer, enabling us to expand operations, whilst also providing the extra freight capacity the industry really needs.”
Related topics
Cargo, Freight & Heavy-Haul, Regulation & Legislation, Rolling Stock Maintenance, Rolling Stock Orders/Developments, Safety
It’s interesting to see the 3 Class 66’s arrived in England, but I think that the EWS/DB Shenker should have a few more class 66’s.