GB Railfreight has announced that has signed an agreement to bring an extra five Class 66 locomotives from Germany in a partnership with Beacon Rail Leasing.
The first two are classified as 29004 and 29005 and have been delivered to EMD Doncaster ready to be converted to GBRf and UK standards.
The remaining three locomotives will be delivered in 2021.
The first two locomotives are low-geared heavy haul locomotives rated up to 60 mph; the remaining locomotives are 75mph capable locomotives.
The locomotives will be delivered commencing in Early April 2021, with the programme of conversions being completed by EMD in Doncaster and Longport. The conversion will include fitting of air conditioning, soundproofing, double glazing and cab improvements.
Additionally, the class 66s will be fitted with the most up to date GSMR and TPWS systems and will also be painted in GBRf livery.
Once in service, they will become Class 66 66793 – 66797.
John Smith, Managing Director of GB Railfreight, said: “Today's announcement is another important milestone for GB Railfreight's continued expansion as a company. We are delighted to be bringing these five locomotives to the UK and adding them to GB Railfreight's Class 66 fleet.
“This agreement also shows that despite the economic uncertainty our country faces, GBRf leads the way with continued investment to put the UK economy back on track. We look to the future with optimism.”
Adam Cunliffe, CEO of Beacon Rail, said: “Beacon Rail is delighted to be supporting GB Railfreight with these latest additions and further expanding the long-term relationship between our two companies. The class 66 is a proven performer, being the backbone for the movement of essential goods over recent months. Beacon is committed to further growth of the UK rail freight market through the introduction of these additional locomotives.”
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Maybe they could do with having left over Pacers and convert them into freight cargo carriages with a locomotive added and to continue their freight movements in Germany and neighbouring countries.
saw both of these in eastleigh east yard parked friday 9 oct i went to leamington spa yesterday13 oct after i got their the 6m26 eastleigh -mountsorrel had passed at 1205 66737 66790 going to doncaster that evening from mountsorrel once loaded
Does Germany like the Class 66s. Why can’t they build their own freight locomotives.
I wish they would repatriate some 58’s and fix them up to use instead.