DB Cargo UK trials Class 93 tri-mode locomotive
DB Cargo UK has successfully trialled a Class 93 tri-mode locomotive on an intermodal service in the North West as it explores future options for its locomotive fleet.
Working in collaboration with Rail Operations Group and Network Rail, DB Cargo UK used 93006 to successfully haul a Peel Ports service from Seaforth in Merseyside to Mossend in Glasgow and back on Tuesday, 10 March.
The Class 93 is the latest and most advanced development of Stadler’s successful UK locomotive family - a new and improved mixed-traffic locomotive built on the success and track record of the Class 68 and Class 88 fleets but with the enhanced performance, versatility and efficiency with higher diesel and battery performance.
Manufactured in Valencia, Spain, these tri-mode locomotive have four different modes of traction.
In electric mode, they can run on 25kV AC overhead lines with a power up to 4,000kW (4MW), with an extra 600kW (0.6MW) of boost power from the battery.
They feature a Stage V 900 kW-engine and two Lithium Titanate Oxide (LTO) traction battery packs, allowing them to operate on non-electrified lines.
The battery packs provide 400 kW of extra power to supplement the engine when the locomotives are running in diesel/battery or hybrid mode. The batteries can also work alone, enabling carbon-free operations without losing any tractive effort.
Mark Sargant, DB Cargo UK’s Head of Operations, said: “The trial of the Class 93 was conducted as part of an ongoing review of our future fleet investment strategy, and we were impressed with its performance.
“We also took the opportunity to take along representatives from the train driver union ASLEF, to ascertain their views on its’ performance out on the network,” he added.
Brian Ferguson, General Manager at Rail Operations Group, said: “We’re delighted with the continued performance of the Class 93 during these trials. Handling loads of up to 1,500 tonnes, the locomotive delivered a strong performance throughout, including successful standing starts on challenging gradients.
“Each successful run builds further confidence in what is a truly versatile and capable locomotive for the modern railway. The results we’re seeing are a testament not only to the technology itself, but also to the expertise, planning and commitment of the teams delivering these operations.”
“Further trials and demonstrations are planned over the coming months as we continue to strengthen and develop our working relationship with DB Cargo UK,” he added