A class 73 electro-diesel locomotive is to be rebuilt by Railway Vehicle Engineering Ltd and have modern traction equipment installed.
The rebuilt locomotive will be a prototype for a possible fleet of around 12 vehicles.
Network Rail, along with a number of freight and passenger operators have expressed interest in the project.
RVEL say that the main advantages of using a rebuilt class 73 are the reduced costs as ‘opposed to buying a new locomotive’.
‘It doesn’t go out as an old locomotive, it goes out as a re-engined locomotive with new technology’, a spokesperson said.
The rebuilt locomotive will also be more fuel efficient and produce less emissions.
The locomotive’s 750 V DC traction control equipment will be replaced by a DC chopper, with the English electric diesel engine being replaced by a pair of more powerful Cummins QSK19 engines.
Control equipment will be replaced by an NForce control system.
The first class 73s were constructed in 1962 and, following the withdrawal of class 74s, are now unique in being able to operate under electric or diesel power.
It is hoped that the prototype will be ready next year.
