DB Cargo UK has awarded a significant contract to Siemens Mobility to equip its Class 66 freight locomotives with the cutting-edge European Train Control System (ETCS), marking a key step in the UK’s digital rail transformation.
The project, which will commence in July, will see nine of DB Cargo UK’s Class 66 locomotives fitted with the new in-cab signalling system at the company’s Toton Traction Maintenance Depot in the East Midlands. The work is scheduled for completion by March 2026, representing the initial phase of a broader national programme to integrate ETCS across DB Cargo’s entire Class 66 fleet.
This initiative is integral to the nationwide rollout of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS), spearheaded by the £1.4 billion East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP). The ECDP aims to replace traditional lineside signals with advanced digital technology, enhancing efficiency and capacity on the East Coast Main Line.
Siemens Mobility, the ECDP’s chosen partner, will be responsible for designing, integrating, and installing its Trainguard 200 Onboard unit, enabling signal-free operation on the key route.
Emily Woodward, Network Rail’s senior sponsor (freight) for ECDP, highlighted the project’s significance, stating, “This is an exciting step on the journey to a digital railway, which will contribute to rail freight’s growth by helping freight trains operate more efficiently on the network. We welcome the collaboration and innovation as our partners progress the pioneering work of fitting freight locos for the next generation railway.”
Jon Harman, DB Cargo UK’s head of asset management and maintenance, emphasised the company’s commitment to engineering excellence. He said: “Having recently played a significant part in the ‘first-in-class’ fitment of ETCS on one of our own Class 66 locomotives (66039), which has recently undergone dynamic testing at Network Rail’s Rail Innovation and Development Centre, we are looking forward to continuing our collaboration with Siemens to install the new technology in further locomotives.
“This contract award has been secured on the back of the hard work and dedication of our maintenance and engineering colleagues and represents a significant boost to our order book.
“DB Cargo UK is very proud of the industry-leading role we continue to play in the delivery of ERTMS here in the UK which will deliver a more dynamic, reliable and safer railway for all those who use it.
“It will provide much needed capacity for freight on the East Coast Main Line and other routes and this significant investment in the Class 66 locomotive is a further advancement towards securing the long-term growth of our sector.”
Rob Morris, joint CEO and managing director, rail infrastructure UK&I, Siemens Mobility, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. He said: “I’m delighted that Siemens Mobility is playing a key role to transform rail travel and transport for freight users through the fitment of our European Train Control System (ETCS) on the Class 66 locomotives.
“Following the successful first-in-class fitment, the complexity of integrating ETCS across multiple design variants has truly showcased the skill, precision, and dedication of our engineering teams. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with DB Cargo UK, Network Rail and the East Coast Digital Programme on this exciting project.”
This collaboration marks a crucial milestone in the UK’s journey towards a modern, efficient, and safer rail network.
