Insight

GB Railfreight unveils advanced new locomotives

GB Railfreight (GBRf), one of the UK’s leading rail freight operators and backed by Infracapital, has unveiled its new Class 99 locomotives at its Peterborough headquarters.

The new fleet, which represents a £150 million (€173 million) investment from GBRf, will revolutionise Britain’s rail freight network.

Representing a major leap forward for sustainable transport, these powerful new locomotives will play a key role in decarbonising Britain’s supply chains while supporting regional growth and helping to deliver a cleaner, faster, and more resilient freight network.

The Class 99s can run on both electricity and renewable fuels, offering customers the most sustainable freight solution on the market and halving carbon emissions.

These new locomotives, which were manufactured by Stadler in Valencia, will move a vast range of consumable goods and materials across the country. They will support critical projects and stock shops nationwide.

GB Railfreight transports goods across the country including materials for house building, aviation fuel to airports, clothes, white goods, wine and materials used to heat homes – all of which play a significant role in driving the UK economy.

John Smith, CEO of GBRf, said: “The Class 99 locomotives set a new benchmark for performance and sustainability in UK rail freight. With hybrid capability, these locomotives provide the resilience and flexibility our customers need to meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s standards while supporting the UK’s drive towards net-zero.”