DB Cargo UK, alongside its sister company DB Cargo Polska, is playing a crucial role in supporting Tata Steel’s transformation to greener steelmaking by refurbishing 60 BAA wagons. These refurbished wagons, designed to carry steel slabs and coils, are essential to Tata Steel’s GBP 1.25 billion investment in electric arc furnace (EAF) technology, which will replace traditional steel production methods in the UK.
The refurbishment process sees DB Cargo Polska manufacturing new 40ft wagon frames at its advanced engineering facility in Rybnik, Poland. These frames are then shipped to DB Cargo UK’s wagon maintenance facility in Stoke, where they are fitted, assembled, and tested. The first refurbished wagon entered service in February 2025.
Roger Neary, Chief Sales Officer at DB Cargo UK, highlighted the importance of the collaboration with DB Cargo Polska in meeting the evolving needs of Tata Steel. “This project showcases the advantages of being part of DB’s international network, and we are proud to support Tata Steel’s ambitious sustainability goals with these new wagons. The successful delivery of these wagons is key to ensuring a smooth transition to green steel production,” said Neary.
Tata Steel is undertaking a major shift to electric arc furnace steelmaking as part of its GBP 1.25 billion investment to create a world-leading centre for green steel production. The transformation at its Port Talbot site will reduce carbon emissions and enhance economic and environmental performance. The new BAA wagons will transport steel slabs from local ports to Port Talbot, with the flexibility to also carry feedstock for the electric arc furnace once production begins.
Kerys Twinberrow, Deployment Operations Manager at Tata Steel UK, emphasised the importance of this collaborative effort. “The success of this transition phase is crucial to maintaining customer service and supply chain confidence. The refurbishment of these wagons is an excellent example of the kind of long-term collaboration that will support the future of UK manufacturing.”
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