GB Railfreight’s New Class 99 Locomotives Cleared for UK Network

GB Railfreight has moved closer to introducing its new fleet of British Rail Class 99 locomotives into commercial service after reaching two major milestones in the programme.

The freight operator confirmed that Network Rail has granted the fleet an Interim Network Rail Statement of Compatibility, allowing the locomotives to begin operating across Britain’s railway network as further certification work continues.

At the same time, GB Railfreight has officially accepted the first six Class 99 locomotives into service preparation, enabling driver training to expand ahead of the fleet’s planned commercial introduction later this summer.

Built by Stadler Rail specifically for the UK market, the Class 99 is designed as a bi-mode freight locomotive capable of operating using overhead electric power where electrification exists while also carrying a Stage V-compliant diesel engine for non-electrified sections of the network.

The locomotives are intended to improve flexibility for freight operators by removing the need to swap traction between electric and diesel routes, while also cutting fuel use and reducing emissions compared with conventional diesel-only freight locomotives.

GB Railfreight says the fleet will play an important role in supporting rail freight decarbonisation while still maintaining the operational reach required for nationwide freight movements across both electrified and non-electrified routes.

John Smith OBE, Chief Executive Officer of GB Railfreight, said:

“The granting of the Statement of Compatibility for our Class 99 locomotives is a significant moment for GB Railfreight and the wider sector. I would like to thank the teams at Network Rail and GB Railfreight who have worked tirelessly to reach this point. Achieving compatibility on Britain’s complex railway infrastructure is no small task, and this has been a collaborative effort throughout. The Class 99 represents the future of rail freight, combining improved performance with clear sustainability benefits. With this approval secured, we are now focused on bringing the locomotives into service.”

The arrival of the Class 99 fleet marks one of the most significant recent developments in Britain’s rail freight sector, particularly as operators continue looking for ways to reduce emissions without sacrificing nationwide operational capability.

Image: GB Railfreight