Class 93 Locomotives For Rail Operations (UK)

On 14 January 2021, Stadler and Rail Operations (UK) Limited have signed a framework agreement for the supply of up to 30 Class 93 tri-mode locomotives. An initial batch of 10 machines built at Stadler Valencia is scheduled for delivery from early 2023.

Class 93 is a Bo’Bo’ mixed-traffic locomotive based on Stadler’s Class 68 and 88 locomotives that have been operating in the UK for some years. It is capable of reaching higher speed than the previous ones, i. e. 110 mph (177 km/h) instead of 100 mph (161 km/h). It has three different power sources.

In electric mode, it is able to run on 25 kV AC overhead lines with a power of 4,000 kW. In addition, the locomotive features a 900 kW CAT C32 engine and Lithium Titanate Oxide (LTO) traction battery packs, allowing it to operate over non-electrified lines. The two LTO battery packs provide 400 kW extra power to supplement the engine when the locomotive is running in diesel/battery hybrid mode as well as last mile shunting operation.

Commenting on the contract, Karl Watts, Chief Executive Officer, Rail Operations (UK), said : „The rail industry has acted very positively in understanding its role in reducing carbon emissions and improving inner city air quality. The Class 93 fleet with its array of green credentials, will allow us to lead the way in supporting the rail industry deliver its decarbonisation targets. Furthermore, with its impressive state-of-the-art specification, the Class 93s also allow us to develop new markets and modernise many aspects of UK train operations”.

Rail Operations (UK) is a leading provider of specialist train operating services to the UK rail industry through its subsidiaries Rail Operations Group (ROG), Traxion and Orion. ROG is a provider of whole-life rolling stock services, testing and commissioning programmes, maintenance and retirements, as well as rescue and other specialist services relating to rolling stock movements.

Traxion is a provider of rolling stock storage solutions. Orion is a provider of fast-growing, high speed logistics and express freight, focussed on accelerating modal shift from air/road to rail by offering a competitive, environmentally-friendly, rail-borne solution.