UK: The first of the Class 93 tri-mode electric-diesel-battery locomotives ordered by Rail Operations Group is expected to be delivered shortly, following the completion of initial testing at Stadler’s factory at València in Spain.
ROG said the locos are expected to significantly reduce CO2 emissions on freight as well as potentially passenger services.
‘The Class 93 fleet with its array of green credentials will allow us to lead the way in supporting the rail industry in delivery of its decarbonisation targets’, said CEO David Burley on April 6.
‘Further, with its impressive state-of-the-art specification, the Class 93s also allow us to diversify and develop new markets whilst modernising many aspects of UK train operations.’
ROG and Stadler signed a framework agreement for 30 of the locomotives in January 2021, with a firm order for an initial 10.
The mixed-traffic Bo-Bo design is based on the Class 68 UKLight diesel and Class 88 UKDual electro-diesel locos supplied to Direct Rail Services, but with a higher maximum speed of 175 km/h rather than 160 km/h.
It has a rating of 4·6 MW using 25 kV 50 Hz electrification, with a 900 kW Caterpillar C32 diesel engine meeting EU 97/68 Stage V emission regulations for use on non-electrified lines.
Two lithium titanate oxide battery packs will provide an extra 400 kW to supplement the diesel engine or for zero-emission shunting.
