A test freight train has been run by GB Railfreight from DP World’s London Gateway to Maritime Transport’s Hams Hall freight terminal in the West Midlands, using a new Class 99 bi-mode locomotive.
Yesterday’s intermodal service is being hailed by GB Railfreight as a ‘significant milestone’, particularly because it was one of the final stages before the electric/diesel 99s, which are built by Stadler, enter commercial service next month.
The newest member of the Class 99 fleet, 99010, arrived at Avonmouth this week.
GBRf CEO John Smith said: ‘This is one of the final milestones before the Class 99s enter full commercial service, and it is fantastic to see an intermodal train hauled by one of these new locomotives on the network. The Class 99 represents a real step change for our industry, building on rail’s position as the cleanest and most productive way to move goods around the country.
‘After a successful trial, we are ready to deliver a new era for rail freight in Britain.’
John Bailey is Managing Director – Intermodal at Maritime Transport, and he said: ‘We are very pleased to be working closely with GBRf and DP World on this important trial, marking another positive step in the introduction of the Class 99 fleet.
‘The successful operation into Hams Hall Rail Freight Terminal demonstrates the strength of collaboration across the rail freight sector, and the important role our rail terminal network continues to play in connecting the UK’s major ports with inland markets, giving businesses greater access to efficient, low-carbon routes across the country.’
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