GB Railfreight has indicated that the final batch of new Class 66s is on its way. The locomotives have left the factory and are currently on a ship heading for the UK. Arrival is expected for 5-6 December.

These seven locomotives (66766-66772) are most likely the last Class 66s ever built. In total, 676 units of the type have been produced. With Stage IIIb emission regulations coming into force from 1 January 2015, the current Stage IIIa compliant design may no longer be supplied to European countries. EMD/Progress Rail have mentioned that a Stage IIIb compliant version will not be developed and - even though the IIIa version could be supplied to non-EU countries - the production line will be discontinued.

For a complete overview of all owners of Class 66 locomotives (and all 676 locos!), check out our section about them: link.

(GB Railfreight/DP)