GB Railfreight (GBRf) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with US clean technology firm HyOrc Corporation to explore the retrofit of legacy diesel locomotives with zero-emission-ready propulsion technology.
The collaboration, known as Project Phoenix, will define a pilot pathway to convert part of GBRf’s older fleet using HyOrc’s system, with the ambition of creating a practical and lower-risk route to freight decarbonisation.
The proposal builds on HyOrc’s recently validated 1MW factory system, independently assessed by Bureau Veritas. Under Project Phoenix, the technology would be scaled to a 3MW UK pilot, replacing the diesel engine in a legacy locomotive and demonstrating how existing assets can transition to sustainable fuels without the need for widespread electrification infrastructure.
The phased model would initially cut emissions through the use of onboard Natural Gas or LPG before moving to 100% onboard Hydrogen. The final transition would be supported by HyOrc’s proprietary hydrogen-conditioning technology, designed to improve the economic case for hydrogen use.
Alex Kirk, Commercial Director at GB Railfreight, said:
“Project Phoenix aligns with GBRf’s strategic commitment to lead the rail freight sector towards a more sustainable future and could play a key role in delivering our carbon reduction plan. By retrofitting part of our existing fleet with multi-fuel technology, it will offer a practical, low-risk route to decarbonisation. It enables us to extend the value of current asset alongside the introduction of our new fleet of bi-mode Class 99s.”
Lisa Carter, CFO of HyOrc, added:
“Project-Phoenix is a turning point for the rail industry. By retrofitting existing assets, we allow operators to decarbonise immediately, bypassing billions in new fleet costs. We are exploring obtaining structured funding through the Connected Places Catapult Accelerator.”
If progressed beyond the pilot stage, the initiative could offer a scalable model for extending the life of existing freight locomotives while reducing emissions, complementing the deployment of new bi-mode and alternative-fuel fleets across the UK network.
