GB Railfreight (GBRf) unveiled its new Class 99 bi‑mode locomotives at its Peterborough headquarters, bringing together industry leaders, customers and stakeholders to mark the start of a new era in sustainable rail transport
The new fleet, which represents a GBP 150 million (EUR 173.3 million) investment from GBRf, will revolutionise Britain’s rail freight network.
“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,” John Smith, the CEO of GBRf, said.
The Class 99 hybrid locomotives are designed to power the future of freight. By running on electric lines where available and switching seamlessly to renewable fuels elsewhere, the Class 99s ensure that goods arrive at their destination sooner and more reliably, all whilst dramatically reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.
Key features of the Class 99 bi-mode Co’Co’ locomotives include, hybrid power, enhanced performance as delivers faster acceleration, reduced downtime, and increased productivity and sustainability-driven. Sets a new standard for green rail freight, supporting customers to meet their sustainability targets and lead the race to zero emissions.
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.
The Class 99 was officially unveiled at InnoTrans in Berlin last year and in June 2025 they have arrived at the Port of Bristol.
In April 2022, Beacon awarded Stadler a contract for the supply of 30 bi-mode Co’Co’ locomotives to be operated by GB Railfreight. The 6-axle Class 99 locos are able to run at 120 km/h on 25 kV AC electrified lines with a power of 6MW. In addition, they feature a high-power, low-emission Stage V engine for operation on non-electrified lines. In April 2023, GBRf and Stadler have signed an agreement that will see Stadler Rail Services be responsible for all aspects of service and maintenance GBRf’s latest hybrid locomotives from 2025.
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.
Representing a major leap forward for sustainable transport, these powerful new Class 99 bi-mode locomotives s 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.
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