GB Railfreight (GBRf), working in partnership with Maritime Transport and DP World, has reached a key milestone in the rollout of its new Class 99 locomotive fleet. On Wednesday, 17 June, a live intermodal service successfully operated between DP World’s London Gateway and Maritime’s Hams Hall Rail Freight Terminal — marking one of the final stages before the fleet enters full commercial service.
The trial saw one of GBRf’s bi-mode Class 99 locomotives haul a revenue-earning intermodal train along a strategically important freight corridor. The performance offered a clear demonstration of the fleet’s capabilities under real operating conditions, reinforcing its potential to transform the efficiency and sustainability of UK rail freight.
A step change for UK rail freight
With the introduction of electric and diesel power in a single platform, the Class 99 fleet is designed to deliver greater operational flexibility while reducing emissions. The latest trial highlights how these locomotives can seamlessly operate across electrified and non-electrified routes — a key requirement for modern intermodal logistics.
The timing of the trial is also significant. It coincides with the arrival of locomotive 99010 at Avonmouth, further strengthening GBRf’s fleet readiness ahead of the planned launch of full commercial operations in July.
By linking London Gateway — one of the UK’s busiest deep-sea ports — with the inland Hams Hall terminal, the trial underscores the growing importance of integrated rail freight solutions. The route is a vital artery for containerised goods moving between ports and regional distribution centres.
Collaboration driving progress
The successful operation also reflects strong collaboration between infrastructure, logistics and rail operators. Maritime Transport’s terminal network continues to play a crucial role in connecting major ports with inland markets, enabling more efficient and lower-carbon supply chains.
John Smith, CEO of GB Railfreight, said:
“This is one of the final milestones before the Class 99s enter full commercial service, and it is fantastic to see an intermodal train hauled by one of these new locomotives on the network. The Class 99 represents a real step change for our industry, building on rail’s position as the cleanest and most productive way to move goods around the country.
“After a successful trial, we are ready to deliver a new era for rail freight in Britain.”
John Bailey, Managing Director – Intermodal at Maritime Transport, added:
“We are very pleased to be working closely with GBRf and DP World on this important trial, marking another positive step in the introduction of the Class 99 fleet.
“The successful operation into Hams Hall Rail Freight Terminal demonstrates the strength of collaboration across the rail freight sector, and the important role our rail terminal network continues to play in connecting the UK’s major ports with inland markets, giving businesses greater access to efficient, low-carbon routes across the country.”
Preparing for launch
With testing now entering its final phase and more locomotives arriving in the UK, GBRf is preparing for a significant shift in freight operations. The Class 99 fleet is expected to enhance capacity, improve reliability and support decarbonisation goals across the network.
As July approaches, the focus will turn from testing to delivery — with the sector watching closely as one of the most advanced freight locomotive fleets in the UK prepares to enter frontline service.
Image credit: GB Railfreight
