Spain-based train manufacturer Vossloh España has received two new orders from operators in the UK and Italy for its eight Eurolight family locomotives.
As part of the deal, Vossloh España will deliver seven Class 68 UKLIGHT locomotives to the UK open-access operator Direct Rail Services (DRS) through Beacon Rail Leasing.
The company has already delivered an initial tranche of 15 of the 2.8MW locomotives to DRS, five of which are used for passenger services by Chiltern Railways on London Marylebone to Birmingham and Kidderminster route.
“The acquisition of the locomotives allows us to continue to grow and to support the needs of our customer and the UK rail market.”
The remaining ten locomotives of the second order will be delivered in the coming months, while all these vehicles will be used for operations on both passenger and freight services.
Vossloh España CEO Iñigo Parra said: “This third contract will bring DRS’ fleet of UKLIGHT locomotives to 32 units as it impressively proves the high trust of DRS and Beacon Rail Leasing into Vossloh.
Beacon Rail Leasing CEO Ted Gaffney said: “The acquisition of the locomotives allows us to continue to grow and to support the needs of our customers and the UK rail market.”
In addition, Vossloh España will supply one Eurolight locomotive to the Italian rail operator Dinazzano Po to be used in freight services and this is the first locomotive contract awarded to the company from Italy.
The Eurolight is a high-power, four-axle, diesel-electric locomotive, with AC/AC transmission and low-axle load and it fully complies with all European standards regarding safety, emissions and environmental protection.
The lightweight locomotive, which is characterised by its high-traction power, offers excellent flexibility to rail operators since the units can be operated on main and secondary lines.
