A major milestone has been reached in Britain’s rail modernisation as GB Railfreight’s locomotive 66 784 becomes the first freight engine to begin fitment with European Train Control System digital in-cab signalling equipment outside the initial prototype phase.
The work, now underway at EMD Longport, marks the start of early fleet fitment for the National Freight ETCS Programme, a critical component of the £1.4 billion East Coast Digital Programme.
Fitting ETCS to freight locomotives – many of which are 30 to 40 years old – is one of the most technically challenging aspects of the ECDP. The system replaces traditional lineside signals with real-time digital information displayed directly in drivers’ cabs, improving safety, reliability, and efficiency.
The fitment is being delivered by Siemens Mobility, using its Trainguard 200 onboard unit, in close collaboration with Network Rail and freight operators.
The Class 66 fleet — the backbone of Britain’s freight network — is the first to undergo this transformation. A baseline design has now been developed, enabling the fitment of an initial eight locomotives, starting with 66 784.
Network Rail’s Industry Partnership Director for ECDP, Ed Akers, said:
“Today marks a step forward. We’ve collaborated with the rail freight sector to address the challenges involved with fitting 21st century technology to 20th century locomotives.
“Fitting locos provides more certainty for the sector and the business change required for digital transformation. ECDP involves ‘learning by doing’ and much hard work has already taken place to get us to this point. We continue to build our capability in freight fitment as we begin this exciting new phase.”
This early rollout will help resolve remaining design and assurance challenges ahead of Approval to Place into Service (APIS) for the wider Class 66 fleet.
The ETCS rollout is part of a broader strategy to digitally signal the East Coast Main Line, reducing delays, cutting emissions, and enabling more flexible train operations. The freight fitment programme ensures that freight operators are fully integrated into this digital future.
Image credit: Network Rail
