TRANSPENNINE Express is seeking expressions of interest from manufacturers to supply between 15 and 30 new bi-mode locomotives to work with its CAF-built Mk.5a rakes of coaches –a role currently performed by Class 68s subleased from Direct Rail Services.
As well as taking traction current from a 25kV overhead supply, the locomotives are expected to be capable of operating on non-electrified routes using either diesel or battery power, and be approved for use at up to 100mph.
Specifications
Details are subject to change, pending formal publication of documents for the tendering process, but a notice published online by TPE’s parent company FirstGroup states that the reduction of the environmental impact of train services is a primary objective of the proposed procurement.