Powerhaul locos have arrived

[Shimbleshanks]

The first two of Freightliner's Class 70 Powerhaul locos finally made it to Newport Docks yesterday (Sunday 8 November) - I was at the official press event, representing a shipping journal.

I've tried to attach a couple of photos but I'm not sure that the attachment process has worked. Email me at [email protected] if you can't see them and I'll send you a couple.

Apparently, four more locos are on their way and are due to arrive by Christmas. There will be a further six by Christmas 2010; the remainder of the 30-strong order has yet to be confirmed.

Freightliner told me that they were considering firing up the two that have arrived and letting them leave under their own power, but that was still to be decided.

Then the first will go into service on the Portbury Rugeley coal haul and the second on the Felixstowe-Birmingham intermodal route (probably via the North London Line).

[pre65]

Originally Posted by Shimbleshanks

and the second on the Felixstowe-Birmingham intermodal route (probably via the North London Line).

Oh that means I might get to see one.Any idea when that might start ?

[Shimbleshanks]

From what they were saying, providing there are no unexpected snags, the in-service trials on the Portbury-Rugeley run might start within a couple of weeks or so - slightly later for Felixstowe-Birmingham.

[klordger1900]

I will keep my eyes open along the A12.

[ccmmick]

Im sorry but what an ugly loco i thought 67 were bad but this one takes the biscuit

Funny my van is the same colour..

ccmmick.

[garrat]

Im inclined to agree Mick awful design

[ECML43]

They have sort of lost it when designing these. but they are primarily for freight arent they? when designing passenger trains they seem to consult arty design specialists. But with this it looks like they consulted practicality and nothing else, and im not even sure how practical that design is ! are these odd machines supposed to be replacing our reputable friend the class 66? because they're not even old and they've been ,and still are, extremely successful. I don't think they will be a replacement for anything, but when the time comes to replace a well known class of loco, I hope they'll listen to our feedback on the fashion front... think what the new class 66 could end up looking like ...

[jonty14]

With it being painted I think it looks not to bad. At least it is noticeable. Something different I suppose!!

[Dave Rowland]

Originally Posted by jonty14

With it being painted I think it looks not to bad. At least it is noticeable. Something different I suppose!!

High Visibility Vests are noticeable. They are ALSO unsightly. And The Elephant Man was different.... and he never pulled anything!

[John H-T]

Wonder who will produce the first model: Bachmann, Heljan, Hornby or Dapol?!

Best wishes,

John H-T.