Class 66 locomotives are to be fitted with digital in-cab signalling thanks to a new deal between DB Cargo UK and Siemens Mobility.

Work to fit the European Train Control System will begin in July. The work will be carried out to nine Class 66s, with work taking place at Toton Traction Maintenance Depot in the East Midlands.

It is expected that the work will be completed in March 2026 and is the first phase of a programme to fit all of DB’s Class 66s with the new signalling system.

“Having recently played a significant part in the ‘first-in-class’ fitment of ETCS on one of our own Class 66 locomotives (66039), which has recently undergone dynamic testing at Network Rail’s Rail Innovation and Development Centre, we are looking forward to continuing our collaboration with Siemens to install the new technology in further locomotives,” said Jon.

 “This contract award has been secured on the back of the hard work and dedication of our maintenance and engineering colleagues and represents a significant boost to our order book,” he added.

“DB Cargo UK is very proud of the industry-leading role we continue to play in the delivery of ERTMS here in the UK which will deliver a more dynamic, reliable and safer railway for all those who use it.”

“It will provide much needed capacity for freight on the East Coast Main Line and other routes and this significant investment in the Class 66 locomotive is a further advancement towards securing the long-term growth of our sector,”

DB Cargo UK’s Head of Asset Management and Maintenance Jon Harman