The shunters, which are owned by Porterbrook, are expected to reduce emissions by c.40% and will be used to move steel billets from an electric arc furnace to CELSA’s rolling mills where it will be used to make metal sections, bar and rods.
These products are then transported to sites across the country where they are used in construction and infrastructure projects.
GB Railfreight and CELSA Steel UK have decided to open a series of competitions to name the three vehicles, which will be launching early next year.
John Smith, Chief Executive of GB Railfreight, said: “It’s great to see these clean, green new shunters enter service at CELSA Steel UK. They’re another example of how the rail freight sector plays a critical role in decarbonising the UK’s supply chains.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the nominated names for the new shunter locomotives – we’re hopeful we can use this to raise some money for charity and make people smile.”
Logistics UK’s Senior Policy Advisor, Ellis Shelton, said: “The rail industry plays a crucial role in the nation's logistics and GB Railfreight's introduction of new low-emission depot shunters demonstrates the sector's determination to adopt more sustainable operations as the logstics sector moves towards net zero.
“It is vital that the logistics sector works together to promote rail freight adoption among new businesses, invests in modern facilities and leverage data technology, and demonstrates a forward-thinking approach.
"To ensure growth like this is maintained, it is essential that the government provides adequate funding to invest in enhancing capacity on the network."
