UK: The four-axle EuroDual locomotive has been launched on the 642 km West Coast Main Line.
Since 2023, it was undergoing trials, hauling up to 1,800 t trainsets in four traction modes. Back in 2021, the British ROUK ordered ten such locomotives from Stadler with an option for another 20 vehicles for its freight subsidiary ROG.
In the driver’s cab of the Class 93 hybrid locomotive from Stadler for the UK. Source: ROG
The rolling stock can operate, powered by 25 kV AC catenary (having a 4 MW power rating), by a Stage V 900 kW engine from Caterpillar, by a diesel engine and two batteries with a total power of 400 kW. The locomotive is said to reach speeds of 175 km/h.
The vehicle can also by powered only by batteries to cover the so-called last mile of service. The lithium titanate oxide batteries supplied by ABB can be charged within 10–20 minutes and feature an 8-year service life.
