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British Rail Class 68
British Rail Class 68
British Rail Class 68
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British Rail Class 68
A DRS Class 68 locomotive at York
Type and origin
Power typeDiesel-electric
Builder
ModelStadler UKLight[1]
Build date2013–2017
Total produced34
Specifications
Configuration:
​
 • UICBo′Bo′
 • CommonwealthBo-Bo
Gauge1,435 mm (4 ft 8+1⁄2 in) standard gauge
Wheel diameter1,100 mm (3 ft 7+1⁄3 in)
Loco weightapproximately 85 t (84 long tons; 94 short tons)[2]
Fuel typediesel
Fuel capacity5,000 L (1,100 imp gal; 1,300 US gal)
Prime moverCaterpillar C175-16[3]
Traction motorsFour ABB 4FRA6063 (600 kW)
MU working
Train heatingElectric,
HEP inverter up to 500 kW (ETH index 96[5])
Loco brakeBlended: Rheostatic braking (2,100 kW); electropneumatic.[2]
Safety systemsTPWS, AWS
Performance figures
Maximum speed100 mph (160 km/h)
Power output3,800 hp (2,800 kW) at 1,740 rpm
Tractive effort317 kN (71,000 lbf)
Career
Operators
Numbers68001–68034
Official nameUKLight
Axle load classRA 7[4]
Delivered2014
First run2014
Current owner
[6]
Sources: Technical parameters.[7] (except where noted)

The Class 68 is a type of mainline mixed traffic diesel-electric locomotive manufactured by Stadler Rail Valencia (and previously by Vossloh España) for Direct Rail Services (DRS) in the United Kingdom. The design is derived from the Stadler Eurolight, and Stadler's product name for this variant is the UKLight.

On 5 January 2012, DRS announced the placement of an order for fifteen Class 68 locomotives, the first of which arrived in the UK during January 2014. The first batch of Class 68s was quickly followed by a second batch, also intended for DRS and the first batch to be built by Stadler. The delivery of these locomotives was completed during April 2016. A third batch of Class 68s was also ordered, deliveries of which were completed during July 2017. The Class 68 has since been followed by two related locomotives, the Class 88 and Class 93.

Since its introduction in 2014, the Class 68 has been used on numerous passenger and freight operations, including DRS's nuclear flask trains. In addition to DRS's freight operations, the operator has also used the type to haul various charter trains. Several units have been subleased to other operators, including Chiltern Railways, Abellio ScotRail, and TransPennine Express, for passenger services, hauling various rakes of carriages to do so, in some cases being outfitted with Association of American Railroads (AAR) push-pull apparatus.

Background

[edit]

Origins

[edit]
Main article: Stadler Eurolight

During the 2000s, the British train operating company Direct Rail Services (DRS) recognised that its small fleet of British Rail Class 20 diesel locomotives were increasingly outdated and suffering from ever-decreasing viability as a result of the very low numbers still in service with any operator.[8] Accordingly, management examined several alternatives that could potentially be operated with greater profitability while also being practical for the company's core business of transporting nuclear materials by rail. While DRS did acquire newer diesel traction, such as the ubiquitous British Rail Class 66 locomotive, these did not satisfactorily fill the Class 20's niche, partly due to Class 66's two-stroke engine being somewhat inefficient compared with some alternatives and unable to satisfy the latest EU emission standards.[8] It also incurs a higher operating cost than several contemporary locomotives, along with a relatively high rate of wheelset wear and a less than hospitable cab environment. Thus, there were doubts over the suitability of the Class 66s for hauling nuclear waste trains.[8]

In light of these factors, by 2009, DRS were convinced that a clean-sheet approach would be needed for its technical requirements, with management intended to not only support the business' core activities but without any subsidy but also increase its locomotive fleet.[8] One stated requirement for the envisioned locomotive would be to satisfy the bulk of DRS's traction needs through to 2036. Various manufacturers and their platforms were examined, including Brush Traction, General Electric, Bombardier, Siemens, with particular attention paid to the British Rail Class 70.[8] However, the relatively small quantity sought by DRS proved to be an adverse condition during this search. The rolling stock leasing company Beacon Rail suggested approaching the Spanish manufacturer Stadler Rail Valencia, who was relatively receptive of the construction of a bespoke locomotive to meet DRS's needs based upon its existing Eurolight platform.[8]

To explore the concept in detail, Stadler produced a modified EUROLight demonstrator that conformed with the relatively restricted dimensions imposed by the British loading gauge as well as the specification produced by DRS, and subjected it to tests at the Velim railway test circuit in the Czech Republic.[8] Areas of modification extended beyond the physical bodyshell and the mechanical systems, as British railway regulations necessitated wiring changes and the fitted equipment. Furthermore, whereas the EUROLight platform had been geared for a maximum speed of 75 mph (121 km/h), DRS sought a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h); as a part of the modifications made to achieve this, the axle-hung traction motors had to be relocated to the body to produce a reduction in the locomotive's overall unsprung mass.[8] The development effort, which took roughly 18 months from start to finish, was greatly aided by the firm's experience from prior work undertaken in the manufacture of the British Rail Class 67 locomotive. Stadler's performance and responsiveness to DRS' interest led to the latter placing its confidence in the former.[8]

As a result of another DRS stipulation, an electric train supply was incorporated into the UKLight's power train, capable of supplying up to 500 kW so that large trains, such as a British Rail Class 390, could be readily hauled.[8] The locomotive's propulsion system is compliant with Stage III A of the European emission standards, but not the more stringent Stage III B requirements.[9] While DRS had envisioned their ideal locomotive using a Co-Co wheel arrangement, the performance demonstrated by the EUROLight demonstrator at Velim was such to convince the company that the requirement could be satisfactorily fulfilled using a four-axle traction unit. This is partially a consequence of its relatively low centre of gravity and its balanced and evenly spread weight, which to minimise weight transfer between the axles when pulling heavy trains and helps ensure a consistent delivery of the maximum tractive effort.[8]

Order and production

[edit]

On 5 January 2012, DRS announced it had placed an order with Vossloh for fifteen 100 mph (160 km/h) Eurolight locomotives for both intermodal and passenger work; these would be leased from Beacon Rail and the first example to be delivered during late 2013.[10][11] The value of the contract has been estimated at £45 million.[4] During February 2013, it was announced that the locomotives were to be known as the Class 68 under TOPS;[12] while Vossloh and later Stadler refer to the design by its product name of UKLight.[13]

Placement of this first order to delivery of the first Class 68 locomotive took 28 months. The UKLight's detailed design had not been finalised at the time of the order; according to rail industry periodical Rail, it took four months to select the power train.[8] The selected powerplant was a single 16-cylinder 3,800 hp (2.8 MW) C175-16 engine supplied by Caterpillar Inc.; this was paired with an ABB-built traction package incorporating a six-pole brushless synchronous alternator and two ABB Bordline CC1500 DE compact converters, which use rectifiers to generate an intermediate DC supply, braking chopper, and to power onboard electronics.[8] The Class 68 incorporates an identical vehicle control unit and driver's advisory system to those fitted on the standard EUROLight platform. It has proved to be compliant with DRS's relatively stringent adhesion demands, and that it can achieve a maximum tractive effort of 317 kN.[8]

The first locomotive, 68001, underwent several months of testing at Velim Test Centre in the Czech Republic prior to being shipped to the UK. Thus, during January 2014, the second locomotive in the class, 68002, was the first to arrive in the UK.[14][15][16]

An option for ten further locomotives was confirmed to have been taken up in September 2014.[17] Further to this, on 28 July 2015, Vossloh España announced an order for a further seven locomotives from DRS.[18]

Current operations

[edit]

Direct Rail Services

[edit]
DRS Class 68 approaching the River Ribble

The Class 68 is a mixed-traffic locomotive intended for use on both passenger and freight trains. Customer trials of the type commenced during February 2014, which were initially conducted between Carlisle and Crewe.[19] During mid-2014, DRS indicated that the type were typically operated on container traffic, as well as on Network Rail trains for which the company has been contracted to operate.[20]

The first passenger trains hauled by Class 68s were DRS special services for the 2014 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles.[21] Furthermore, the type is routinely used on DRS nuclear flask trains. According to Rail, operations of the Class 68 has proved it to be a highly effective locomotive.[8]

Chiltern Railways

[edit]
Refurbished Chiltern Railways Class 68 at London Marylebone

From December 2014, the train operating company Chiltern Railways has sub-leased six Class 68 locomotives (68010 to 68015) from DRS; the type has entirely replaced the older Class 67 locomotives on Chiltern Main Line services between London Marylebone and Birmingham Snow Hill.[22][23]

These locomotives have been painted in Chiltern's silver Mainline livery and are fitted with Association of American Railroads (AAR) push-pull equipment, which allows them to operate with Mark 3 coaching stock sets. Furthermore, two DRS-liveried locomotives (68008 and 68009) have also been fitted with AAR push-pull equipment.[24]

In August 2025, Chiltern announced that they would be returning their Class 68 locomotives (68010 to 68015) to DRS, and withdrawing the Mark 3 coaching stock. They will be replaced with different Class 68 locomotives (68019 to 68032) previously leased by TransPennine Express, along with their compatible Mark 5A coaches. These trains will be fitted with automatic start-stop technology to reduce amounts of noise and pollution made by the locomotives.[25] The first of the new trains entered service on 26 January 2026.[26]

Former operations

[edit]

Abellio ScotRail

[edit]
Class 68 No. 68007 on the Glenrothes service

Abellio ScotRail sub-leased two Class 68s, to haul sets of six Mark 2 coaches, for use on peak hour services on the Fife Circle Line. These were 68006 and 68007, which carried the Saltire livery. These services commenced on 1 April 2015, the first day of Abellio Scotrail operation, with the last service operating on 29 May 2020 as the PRM-TSI derogations for the non-compliant Mark 2 coaches ended on 31 May of that year.[27]

TransPennine Express

[edit]

TransPennine Express (TPE) sub-leased fourteen Class 68 locomotives (68019 to 68032) from DRS, for initial use on the Liverpool Lime Street to Scarborough route. Once more sets were delivered and staff had been trained they also worked Manchester Airport to Redcar Central services. These hauled five-car rakes of Mark 5A coaches, with a driving trailer at the opposite end.[28][29]

The former TPE-vinyled locomotives do not feature yellow front ends, following a change to the regulations.[30]

In August 2023, TransPennine Express announced plans to withdraw its Class 68 fleet, as well as its Mark 5A coaches, from the December 2023 timetable revision;[31] however the sets were still leased by TPE until May 2024, and remained in storage until 2026 where 13 Mark 5a Compatible Class 68s moved to Chiltern Railways, as well as the Mark 5A Coaches.[26]

Fleet

[edit]

Before delivery, each of the first nine locomotives was named. All of the other Class 68 locomotives (except 68011 and 68014) have also been named.[32] Locomotive 68010 was named Oxford Flyer on 12 December 2016, in celebration of Chiltern Railways new London-Oxford services. Locomotive 68033 was named The Poppy in honour of the 100th anniversary of the Royal British Legion on 30 October 2021, in a ceremony at London Euston.[33] Locomotive 68006 was renamed Pride of the North as a tribute to the work that DRS do in Northern England and Scotland.[34]

Class Operator Sub-leased to No. Built Year built
Class 68 Direct Rail Services Chiltern Railways 14 2013–2017

Named locomotives

[edit]

The names given to Class 68 locomotives are as follows:[35]

Number Name Operator Notes
68001 Evolution Direct Rail Services
68002 Intrepid Direct Rail Services
68003 Astute Direct Rail Services
68004 Rapid Direct Rail Services
68005 Defiant Direct Rail Services
68006 Pride Of The North[34] Direct Rail Services Formerly Daring. Ex-ScotRail
68007 30 Years of DRS Direct Rail Services Formerly Valiant. Ex-ScotRail. Named to celebrate 30 years of Direct Rail Services[36]
68008 Avenger Direct Rail Services
68009 Titan Direct Rail Services
68010 Oxford Flyer Direct Rail Services Ex-Chiltern Railways
68011 Direct Rail Services Ex-Chiltern Railways
68012 Amy Owen[37] Direct Rail Services Ex-Chiltern Railways
68013 Peter Wreford-Bush[38] Direct Rail Services Ex-Chiltern Railways
68014 Direct Rail Services Ex-Chiltern Railways
68015 Kev Helmer[38] Direct Rail Services Ex-Chiltern Railways
68016 Fearless Direct Rail Services
68017 Hornet Direct Rail Services
68018 Vigilant Direct Rail Services
68019 Brutus (de-named)[39] Chiltern Railways
68020 Reliance Chiltern Railways
68021 Tireless Chiltern Railways
68022 Resolution Chiltern Railways
68023 Achilles (de-named)[40] Chiltern Railways
68024 Centaur (de-named)[39] Chiltern Railways
68025 Superb (de-named)[39] Chiltern Railways
68026 Enterprise (de-named)[39] Chiltern Railways
68027 Splendid (de-named)[39] Chiltern Railways
68028 Lord President (de-named)[39] Chiltern Railways
68029 Courageous (de-named)[39] Chiltern Railways
68030 Black Douglas (de-named)[39] Chiltern Railways
68031 Felix (de-named)[39] Chiltern Railways Was named after the former[41] Huddersfield station cat
68032 Destroyer (de-named)[39] Chiltern Railways
68033 The Poppy[33][42] Direct Rail Services
68034 Rail Riders 2020 Direct Rail Services

Liveries

[edit]
Example Class 68 liveries

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

British Rail Class 68

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The British Rail Class 68 is a mixed-traffic diesel-electric designed for both and freight services on the UK's standard-gauge rail network. Manufactured by Valencia (formerly Vossloh España) in , the Class 68 is based on the company's EUROLIGHT platform and was specifically adapted to meet British loading gauges, regulations, and operational requirements. The design emphasizes versatility, low axle loads for improved , and reduced emissions through efficient engineering. Key technical specifications include a CAT C175-16 producing 2,800 kW (approximately 3,750 hp) of power, an AC/AC electrical transmission system using IGBT technology from ABB, and a maximum speed of 160 km/h (100 mph). With a Bo-Bo axle arrangement (four powered axles), the locomotive weighs around 85-86 tonnes, features a starting of 317 kN, and incorporates disc brakes supplemented by rheostatic for enhanced control. Its body structure, constructed from high-strength carbon and copper steels, houses two ergonomically optimized, air-conditioned driver's cabs, while amenities like a 5,600-liter fuel capacity and optional 500 kW hotel power supply support extended operations. The Class 68's development stemmed from an order placed by (DRS) in January 2012 for 15 locomotives, with the first unit unveiled in December 2013 and arriving in the UK in early 2014. Subsequent expansions brought the total fleet to 34 units by 2018, including additional orders via leasing companies like , enabling broader deployment across the network. Primarily operated by DRS for freight tasks such as trains, transport, and infrastructure support for , the class has also seen passenger service with on routes like London Marylebone to Birmingham; in 2025, Chiltern began transitioning to ex- Class 68s and Mk 5A coaches. Former operators include (hauling Mk 5A coaches until December 2023) and (hauling Mk 2 coaches until May 2020). As of November 2025, the Class 68 remains a cornerstone of UK's operations, noted for its reliability, control compliant with TSI standards, and adaptability to diverse roles amid the ongoing shift toward .

Background

Origins

Direct Rail Services (DRS), a subsidiary of the Nuclear Decontamination Services, identified the need for a modern diesel-electric locomotive fleet in the early 2010s to address the limitations of its aging Class 20 locomotives, which dated from the 1950s and were increasingly inefficient for demanding freight operations. These older units, often operated in pairs due to their modest power output, were primarily used for hauling nuclear flask trains carrying radioactive materials, a core service for DRS. The push for replacement stemmed from requirements for lower emissions to meet evolving environmental standards, significantly higher power for improved performance on heavy loads, and enhanced reliability to minimize downtime on critical routes. To meet these needs, DRS evaluated international designs, focusing on platforms that could be customized for operations. In , following a competitive assessment, DRS selected España's (now ) Eurolight platform, a , high-power diesel-electric design originally geared for 75 mph (121 km/h) operations in . The decision, formalized in early 2012 with an initial order for 15 units, involved adapting the Eurolight—renamed UKLight for the British market—to comply with the UK's smaller and to achieve a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h) for versatile freight and potential use. This adaptation ensured compatibility with the restrictive while maintaining the platform's low for track-friendly operations. Early development included consultations with to incorporate UK-specific requirements, such as enhanced crashworthiness through a structure using high-strength and oxidation-resistant steels, and signaling compatibility aligned with Technical Specifications for (TSI) standards. These adaptations addressed safety regulations for mixed-traffic locomotives on the British network, ensuring seamless integration for tasks like nuclear transport while prioritizing operational efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

Order and production

In January 2012, (DRS) placed an initial order with España for 15 mixed-traffic diesel-electric locomotives based on the Eurolight platform, adapted for loading gauge and operational requirements as the Class 68; the contract value was estimated at £45 million and included options for additional units. The order was placed in cooperation with Leasing, which owned the locomotives and leased them to DRS. The order was part of DRS's fleet modernisation strategy to introduce more efficient and versatile machines capable of both freight and passenger duties. Assembly of the locomotives began in 2013 at Vossloh's facility in Albuixech, Valencia, , with the first unit completing construction in late 2013. Deliveries to the commenced in January 2014, with the initial batch of 15 units arriving progressively through 2015; the first locomotive, 68001, underwent dynamic testing at the in the Czech Republic from September 2013 before shipment. In September 2014, DRS exercised the option for 10 more locomotives, with deliveries completed by April 2016; a further order for seven units followed in July 2015, bringing the total fleet to 32 owned by Leasing for DRS operation, plus two directly for DRS, resulting in 34 locomotives built by 2017. Following Vossloh's acquisition by in 2015, subsequent production shifted under Valencia, maintaining the same design and supply chain. The manufacturing process incorporated international components, including C175-16 diesel engines and ABB traction systems, while adhering to UK-specific adaptations such as compliance with the 4 ft 8½ in and standards. To support UK certification, locomotives were tested for , braking, and emissions at Velim and later at UK sites including Network Rail's test facilities, ensuring conformity with Railway Group Standards for and on the national network. All units received Technical Specification for (TSI) certification, enabling seamless integration into operations by mid-2014.

Description

Technical specifications

The British Rail Class 68 features a , designed for mixed-traffic operations on standard 1,435 mm gauge tracks with a of 1,100 mm. Its overall dimensions are approximately 20.4 m in length over buffers, 2.69 m in width, and 3.81 m in height, contributing to its adaptation to the while maintaining a low of 21.4 tonnes for route versatility. The locomotive weighs around 85 tonnes, balancing power and efficiency for freight and duties. Equipped for a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h), the Class 68 incorporates a rheostatic system integrated with disc air brakes, allowing for reliable stopping performance across varied terrains. Fuel capacity stands at 5,600 litres, supporting extended operational ranges with low-emission diesel consumption facilitated by automatic stop-start technology in the prime mover. The electrical systems utilize a diesel-electric configuration with AC traction, featuring an ABB alternator and IGBT-based converters to drive the four asynchronous traction motors, delivering efficient . The cab design adheres to Technical Specifications for (TSI) standards, ensuring ergonomic driver controls, including provisions for push-pull operations.

Powertrain and performance

The British Rail Class 68 locomotive is powered by a C175-16 V16 four-stroke turbocharged , which delivers a maximum output of 2,800 kW (3,755 hp) at 1,740 rpm. This medium-speed engine features a bore of 175 mm and a stroke of 220 mm, resulting in a displacement of 84.7 litres, and is designed for high reliability in mixed-traffic applications. The engine's compact design contributes to the locomotive's overall weight of approximately 85 tonnes, enabling efficient operation while meeting stringent reliability standards for rail networks. The power is transmitted through an ABB WGX560 main alternator, which converts the engine's mechanical energy into electrical power for four ABB 4FRA6063 three-phase asynchronous traction motors mounted on the bogies in a Bo-Bo configuration. Each traction motor is force-ventilated and rated at around 700 kW, providing a combined starting tractive effort of 317 kN (71,000 lbf) for strong acceleration and hauling capabilities. This electric transmission system allows for precise control of power delivery, supporting rheostatic dynamic braking to improve overall efficiency. Performance-wise, the Class 68 achieves a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h), suitable for both and freight services, with the engine's output enabling rapid acceleration when hauling typical consists. The system complies with Stage IIIA emissions standards, limiting particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons to reduce environmental impact compared to older diesel locomotives. In 2023, introduced compatibility with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) on its Class 68 fleet, a for conventional diesel derived from waste oils, which can cut by up to 90% and particulate emissions by 85%. This adaptation enhances and supports decarbonization efforts without requiring engine modifications.

Operations

Direct Rail Services

Direct Rail Services (DRS) introduced the Class 68 locomotives into service in 2014, primarily for hauling trains and intermodal freight. These locomotives quickly became integral to DRS's operations, supporting the transport of radioactive materials and containerized goods across key networks. As of 2025, DRS operates a fleet of approximately 25 Class 68 locomotives, bolstered by the return of subleased units from other operators. This fleet underpins DRS's core freight activities, with units regularly deployed on specialized services. The Class 68 operates on prominent routes such as the nuclear flask services from to , ensuring secure and efficient movement of hazardous materials. Intermodal trains, including container hauls from to Teesport, further demonstrate the locomotive's versatility in freight logistics. Additionally, DRS utilizes Class 68s for charter passenger services, including railtours that provide specialized experiences. In 2025, notable updates include the application of a new vinyl wrap livery to 68007, commemorating 30 years of DRS operations with a distinctive design unveiled at Kingmoor depot. Class 68 units have also seen integration with the electrified (the "electric spine") to support hybrid operational strategies, enhancing efficiency on mixed diesel-electric routes. Maintenance for the fleet is primarily handled at Carlisle Kingmoor depot, where routine servicing ensures reliability for ongoing freight and charter duties. Some Class 68 locomotives owned by DRS continue to be subleased to other operators for services, though the primary focus remains on DRS's freight commitments.

In 2016, subleased six Class 68 locomotives, numbered 68010 to 68015, from to haul coaches in push-pull formation on its to Birmingham services along the . These locomotives, owned by , provided reliable diesel traction for the operator's flagship routes, replacing older Class 67 units. To reduce emissions, began fueling its Class 68 locomotives with (HVO) in 2023, marking it as the first UK passenger operator to adopt this for regular services. This initiative lowered carbon emissions from the fleet while maintaining operational efficiency on duties. In August 2025, Chiltern announced the return of the subleased 68010 to 68015 to , coinciding with the withdrawal of the coaches by the end of the year. As part of a fleet modernization, Chiltern secured a new 10-year lease for 14 Class 68 locomotives (68019 to 68032) starting in August 2025, to be paired with 13 refurbished Mark 5A coach sets entering passenger service in early 2026. These units will continue HVO fueling to further support emissions reductions and will operate on expanded services, including increased diagrams from London Marylebone to Birmingham. Maintenance for the new fleet shifted to TrainCare at in October 2025 under a 17-month , handling both the Class 68 and Mark 5A coaches. The first , 68020, received Chiltern's new turquoise in September 2025 ahead of testing.

Former operations

Abellio ScotRail

In April 2015, subleased two Class 68 locomotives, 68006 Daring and 68007 Valiant, from (DRS) to provide push-pull capacity on peak-time services along the Fife Circle Line between Waverley and with Thornton. These units were repainted in ScotRail's livery and paired with dedicated rakes of [Mark 2](/page/Mark 2) air-conditioned coaches, which underwent modifications including revised brake configurations to enable electro-pneumatic push-pull working compatible with the locomotives' systems and the route's operational demands. The locomotives operated from to , typically hauling six-car formations during morning and evening peaks to supplement multiple-unit services on the circular Fife route, which serves key commuter destinations including , , and Markinch. Throughout this period, operations encountered difficulties posed by Scotland's inclement weather, such as frequent rain and wind affecting and reliability, alongside the challenges of navigating the line's traditional signaling infrastructure, which required adherence to absolute block sections and speed restrictions on the undulating coastal and inland tracks. The Class 68s were withdrawn from duties at the end of May 2020, primarily to achieve full compliance with Persons with Reduced Mobility - Technical Specifications for (PRM-TSI) accessibility standards, as the leased coaches lacked features like wheelchair spaces and step-free access. The two locomotives were promptly returned to DRS, where they underwent a short storage period at Carlisle Kingmoor before being reassigned to freight and other sublease roles.

TransPennine Express

In 2017, TransPennine Express sub-leased 14 Class 68 locomotives (nos. 68019–68032) from Direct Rail Services to haul the Nova 3 formations of Mark 5A coaches on intercity routes linking Liverpool, Manchester, and Edinburgh. These locomotives typically operated in top-and-tail push-pull configuration with five-car sets, featuring a Class 68 at the leading end and a driving trailer vehicle at the rear to enable bidirectional running without the need for locomotive run-arounds at terminals. From 2020 to 2023, operations encountered reliability issues, largely attributed to the prolonged driver required for push-pull workings—reportedly four times longer than for conventional multiple units—and reduced availability stemming from maintenance demands on the locomotives and associated stock. The fleet was phased out of frontline service with the December 2023 timetable change, with full withdrawal by May 2024 upon expiry; the locomotives were stored at Carriage Maintenance Depot. In August 2025, signed a agreement for the 14 locomotives and 13 associated Mark 5A sets, with preparations including maintenance and repainting underway for entry into passenger service in early 2026. This move supports TransPennine Express's goals of fleet to simplify operations and achieving targeted improvements in and reliability.

Fleet details

Named locomotives

The naming of British Rail Class 68 locomotives began with the delivery of the first units to (DRS) in , establishing a tradition that honors themes such as military heritage, nuclear industry contributions, and significant rail milestones. These names often draw from naval and armed forces terminology, reflecting DRS's operational history in freight and passenger services across the . As of 2025, approximately 30 of the 34 locomotives in the fleet have received names, with ceremonies typically held at key maintenance depots including Heritage Centre and Carlisle Kingmoor to mark important anniversaries or partnerships. The inaugural named locomotive, 68001 Evolution, entered service in late 2014 and symbolizes the class's advanced engineering evolution from previous diesel designs. This unit set the precedent for subsequent namings, with early examples like 68005 Defiant and 68008 Avenger evoking Royal Navy warship legacies to pay tribute to Britain's maritime and military past. In 2021, DRS named 68033 The Poppy during a ceremony at Carlisle Kingmoor, commemorating the Royal British Legion's centenary and Remembrance Day while supporting armed forces charities through a dedicated fundraising campaign. Further namings have expanded to include community and industry tributes, such as 68034 Rail Riders 2020, unveiled at Heritage Centre in June 2023 to honor rail enthusiast initiatives during the . This event highlighted the locomotive's role in heritage events and public engagement. In September 2025, 68007 was named 30 Years of DRS at Carlisle Kingmoor during the operator's anniversary celebration, coinciding with the application of a special vinyl wrap that integrates the nameplate with commemorative graphics. Some named units, like 68007, feature custom liveries that enhance the visual impact of their nomenclature without altering the standard DRS color scheme.

Liveries

The (DRS) house livery, featuring a two-tone blue body with yellow warning panels at the ends, was introduced with the first Class 68 locomotives entering service in 2014 as an updated version of the established DRS 'compass' scheme. This livery became the standard for the majority of the fleet, emphasizing the operator's branding with compass-inspired graphics on the sides. In 2025, DRS introduced vinyl wraps as updates to the standard scheme, including a special "30 Years of DRS" design applied to locomotive 68007 to commemorate the company's anniversary, featuring celebratory graphics over the base blue bodywork. Chiltern Railways applied its silver Mainline , characterized by a metallic silver body with a grey band along the sides and red accents, to six sub-leased Class 68s (68010–68015) starting in 2016 for use on Marylebone to Birmingham services; this scheme remained in use until 2025. In September 2025, Chiltern unveiled a new dark blue with white elements for its expanded fleet of 14 Class 68s, including the first application to 68020, intended for pairing with Mk 5A coaching sets entering service in 2026 to modernize the operator's visual identity. TransPennine Express (TPE) repainted 14 sub-leased Class 68s (68019–68032) into its green-based livery with yellow highlights from 2017, featuring the operator's 'TP' logo and streamlined graphics without traditional yellow warning panels due to advanced front-end ; these locomotives operated until the fleet's withdrawal in 2024. utilized two Class 68s (68006 and 68007) in its livery—a deep blue body with white diagonal cross motifs inspired by the Scottish flag—from 2015 to 2020 for Fife Circle services, highlighting regional identity through the angled white saltires matching the locomotive's cab curvature. Several Class 68s have received one-off promotional vinyl wraps over their base liveries, such as nuclear industry-themed designs on DRS units to promote safety and operations, and special commemorative wraps like the Pride of the North scheme on 68006 to recognize contributions in northern regions. These temporary applications allow for targeted branding without altering the core paint schemes.

References

  1. https://www.stadlerrail.com/api/docs/x/e2fdb1e859/class68_en.pdf
  2. https://www.railwaygazette.com/vossloh-espana-unveils-direct-rail-services-class-68/38978.article
  3. https://www.loco-info.com/view.aspx?id=11944&t=Country
  4. https://www.railmagazine.com/news/chiltern-steps-up-work-on-new-class-68s-fleet-ready-for-2026-entry
  5. https://www.railmagazine.com/news/fleet/end-of-the-line-for-locomotive-hauled-fife-circle-trains
  6. https://www.railwaygazette.com/uk/transpennine-express-to-stop-using-loco-hauled-push-pull-trains-in-december/64819.article
  7. https://www.keymodelworld.com/article/reality-check-drs-versatile-class-88s
  8. https://www.railwaygazette.com/passenger/direct-rail-services-orders-15-vossloh-eurolight-uk-locomotives/36566.article
  9. https://www.railwaygazette.com/freight/class-68-uklight-locomotives-take-shape/38020.article
  10. https://www.railjournal.com/locomotives/drs-orders-more-class-68s-from-vossloh/
  11. https://www.raildeliverygroup.com/media-centre-docman/acop/13036-rdg-eng-gn-008-new-trains-a-good-practice-guide/file.html
  12. https://www.railwaygazette.com/passenger/direct-rail-services-reveals-class-68-design/37730.article
  13. https://www.railengineer.co.uk/sleek-lines/
  14. http://www.class68.co.uk/index1.html
  15. https://www.directrailservices.com/class-68/
  16. https://www.keymodelworld.com/article/br-class-68-bo-bo-diesel-electric-locomotive
  17. https://www.railmagazine.com/news/rail-features/ready-for-the-88-revolution
  18. https://www.railengineer.co.uk/locos-go-bi-and-tri-mode/
  19. https://www.modernrailways.com/article/chiltern-introduces-hvo-fuel-68s
  20. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-66323595
  21. https://hub-4.com/news/30-years-of-direct-rail-services
  22. https://www.directrailservices.com/drs-expands-class-68-fleet/
  23. https://www.railmagazine.com/news/2015/08/19/seven-more-vossloh-class-68s-ordered-for-drs
  24. https://www.directrailservices.com/drs-class-68-fleet-grows/
  25. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/58cnMgpPREc
  26. https://www.modelraildatabase.com/companies/details/83/direct-rail-services/
  27. https://www.railexpress.co.uk/774/drs-68s-break-new-ground/
  28. https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2025/09/68007-gets-new-direct-rail-services-wrap.html
  29. https://www.railfreight.com/railfreight/2025/09/24/uks-direct-rail-services-marks-30-years/
  30. https://www.railmagazine.com/news/fleet/2025/01/29/pair-of-class-68s-rehired-by-drs-for-short-term-use-are-returned-to-owner
  31. https://www.directrailservices.com/drs-class-68-to-power-chiltern-railways-mainline-route/
  32. https://www.railwayherald.com/uknews/chiltern-to-lease-six-class-68-locomotives-from-drs
  33. https://railway-news.com/uk-chiltern-railways-powers-class-68-locomotives-with-vegetable-oil/
  34. https://www.modernrailways.com/article/chiltern-finally-signs-mk-5-deal
  35. https://www.railwaygazette.com/uk/chiltern-railways-signs-10-year-lease-for-push-pull-trainsets/69342.article
  36. https://gb.readly.com/magazines/rail/2025-09-03/68b15019ce8c05d3301139f8
  37. https://news.arriva.co.uk/news/arriva-groups-chiltern-railways-signs-lease-agreement-for-modernised-fleet
  38. https://railmarket.com/news/rolling-stock/40645-arriva-traincare-takes-on-maintenance-of-class-68-and-mk5a-sets-for-chiltern
  39. https://www.railmagazine.com/news/first-class-68-gains-new-chiltern-railways-livery-after-maintenance-contract-agreed
  40. http://www.scot-rail.co.uk/page/Class%2B68
  41. https://www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk/news/extreme-rail-temperatures-affect-performance
  42. https://www.railmagazine.com/news/rail-features/exclusive-inside-direct-rail-services
  43. https://www.railjournal.com/fleet/transpennine-express-introduces-new-nova-fleet/
  44. https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/trains-were-meant-future-now-27705411
  45. https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/-/media/PDFs/TransPennine-Express-Our-Plan-For-the-Future.pdf
  46. https://www.modernrailways.com/article/could-mk-5a-fleet-replace-mk-3s-chiltern
  47. https://www.railmagazine.com/news/deal-finally-signed-for-chiltern-to-take-mk-5s-and-class-68s-from-april-2026
  48. https://www.modernrailways.com/article/naming-trains
  49. http://www.class68.co.uk/locos.html
  50. https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2021/11/drs-names-class-68-loco-to-commemorate-remembrance-day.html
  51. https://railcolornews.com/2021/11/08/uk-nts-reveals-the-poppy-a-locomotive-with-a-noble-cause/
  52. https://www.flickr.com/photos/berwickspotter/54701208489
  53. https://pocketmags.com/us/railway-magazine/november-2025/articles/anniversary-naming
  54. https://www.railtechnologymagazine.com/article/chiltern-leases-six-class-68-loc
  55. https://railcolornews.com/2017/09/11/uk-this-is-the-first-class-68-locomotive-in-the-colors-of-transpennine-express/
  56. https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2021/11/nts-unveil-new-class-68-locomotive-livery-in-scotland.html
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