DB Schenker Expands Electric Fleet

Britain’s biggest freight company has had to restore many electric locomotives for work being cheaper to operate than their diesel fleet.

DB Schenker has Added more Electric Locomotives to its Fleet in an Attempt to Save Costs

The locomotives, all previously stored, are being used in an effort to drive down fuel bills and take advantage of electrified sections of railway.

Previously, services between Kent, London, the Midlands, North and Scotland could have diesel locomotives operating them, despite a complete network of wires and third rail. Examples include the European “Cargowaggons” from Wembley to Dollands Moor, and the intermodal from Dollands Moor to Ditton (Merseyside) and Trafford Park (Manchester).

Electric Locomotives Reinstated

Locomotives recently restored include 90028 (used on “Sleeper” services from London to Scotland), 92015 and 92016. 92016 has been outshopped in DB Schenker’s red livery, with 92015 working in British Rail “Two Tone Grey” from 1996.

Additional locomotives, including 92011 and 92036, will combine with 92015 and 92016, to improve the “buoyant” fifteen locomotives in day to day service to a fleet of somewhere in the region of twenty five. This action will, arguably, also reduce the carbon footprint of the company, as well as providing extra motive power for the predicted upturn in Cross Channel rail freight.