GB Railfreight’s ambitious push to modernise Britain’s freight network has taken a major step forward, as its new fleet of Class 99 bimodal locomotives has officially received Authorisation for Placing Into Service (APIS) from the Office of Rail and Road (ORR).
This regulatory green light confirms that the Class 99s meet all essential standards for safety, accessibility, environmental performance, and technical compatibility—paving the way for their operational debut in early 2026.
The APIS approval follows a busy few months for the fleet. After arriving in the UK in May and being formally launched in July, the locomotives have undergone rigorous testing across a range of routes and regions. The results, according to GB Railfreight, have been promising.
Developed in partnership with Stadler and Beacon Rail, the £150 million investment represents a significant leap forward in the evolution of UK rail freight. The Class 99s are designed to run on both electrified and non-electrified lines, offering enhanced flexibility, lower emissions, and improved performance—key attributes as the industry works toward net zero targets and more resilient supply chains.
Liam Day, Asset Director at GB Railfreight, said:
"Receiving ORR authorisation is another huge step forward for the Class 99, and we’ve been deeply encouraged by the numbers the 99001 and 99002 have been posting in testing over the past few weeks.”
“The Class 99 will set a new benchmark for sustainability, performance and safety. And we cannot wait to get them out on the network for our customers early next year.”
With the first revenue-generating service expected in early 2026, the Class 99s are poised to become a cornerstone of the UK’s future freight strategy—supporting regional growth, reducing carbon emissions, and delivering faster, cleaner logistics across the country.
Image credit: GB Railfreight
