DB Cargo’s locomotive 66039, a Class 66 freight train and the first in Britain’s fleet to be retrofitted with European Train Control System (ETCS) equipment, has advanced to dynamic testing on a test track after successful static testing. The retrofitting was completed at the Progress Rail depot in Doncaster, and the locomotive was transported today to Network Rail’s Rail Innovation and Development Centre (RIDC) in Leicestershire for testing. RIDC is fully equipped for ETCS trials, and the locomotive will be rigorously tested in the upcoming weeks.
The Class 66 is the predominant freight locomotive on Britain’s railways. This development marks a significant step toward equipping numerous freight locomotives with advanced digital signalling systems, which will facilitate longer, faster, and heavier freight trains. This upgrade aims to reduce road congestion by shifting cargo from trucks to rail, thereby lowering transportation emissions. This initiative is part of the East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP), where freight operators have collaborated to standardize the base design provided by Siemens Mobility. This cooperative model emphasizes sharing insights and a benefits-led approach to design.
The retrofitting process, which began 16 months ago, required extensive collaboration within the sector, resulting in a pioneering design that will guide continuous retrofitting efforts. This foundational design will also expedite regulatory approvals for all Class 66 and Class 67 locomotives. In the coming years, numerous locomotives will be equipped with this technology, essential for achieving ‘no signals’ operations through ECDP. This forms the basis for a broader adoption of digital signalling across the network.
Following dynamic testing at RIDC, the locomotive will need to complete 5,000 miles of fault-free operation before it can receive the necessary regulatory approvals.
Ed Akers, Network Rail’s Principal Sponsor, ECDP, said: “The task of retrofitting hundreds of freight locomotives is one of the biggest challenges we face in the transition to a digital future. The Class 66 FiC project has required innovation, tenacity and perseverance to get to this point. I pay tribute to the hard work of all those involved – the industry wide collaboration involved is providing a strong foundation for the ongoing process of freight ETCS fitment”.
Neil Ethell, Chief Operating Officer, DB Cargo UK, said: “Today marks a significant milestone for DB Cargo (UK) on the journey to becoming European Train Control System (ETCS) ready. We’re incredibly proud to be undertaking the first in class fitment of a Class 66. Overall, the design and installation for the Class 66 has taken 4 years, which shows the level of complexity in a retro fitment project of this scale. We’re excited to see how it performs under rigorous testing at RIDC”.
Rob Morris, Joint CEO of Siemens Mobility said: “The Class 66 moving to RIDC marks a major step forward for the Programme. Our teams and fitment partners have worked tirelessly to deliver. The retrofitting will transform the everyday for freight users as well as delivering wider societal and community benefits afforded by digital signalling. A tremendous well done to all involved to date.”
