Class 66: 3/4/7/8

The second volume of the Class 66 book covers the Fastline/Direct Rail Services/Colas-operated Class 66/3/4/8/7 locos delivered in the mid to late 2000s. DRS ordered 34 locos, but later sold 20 to GB Railfreight and Freightliner. Production numbers of the Class 66/3 and 66/8 were limited, with only five locos produced. The book focuses on the locos' early days up to the present time, with a special focus on the south and its beautiful landscapes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2023
Publisher: Key Publishing Ltd

This second volume, dedicated to the Class 66, delves into the era of the Fastline/Direct Rail Services (DRS) operated Class 66/3/4/8/7 locomotives, which were delivered during the mid to late 2000s. This period marked a significant shift in the locomotive landscape, as most of the current freight locomotives in use with Freightliner and English Welsh & Scottish (EWS) were Class 66s, known for their reliability. Direct Rail Services closely followed EWS and Freightliner's lead, and soon placed multiple orders for these powerful locomotives. The total number of Class 66/3/4/8/7 locomotives ordered by DRS eventually reached 34 units. However, interestingly, DRS later sold the first 20 Class 66/3 locomotives to both GB Railfreight and Freightliner. As a result, DRS was left with only 14 Class 66/3 locomotives, which they continue to operate to this day, as of late 2021.

The production of the Class 66/3 locomotives was limited, with only five units being produced between 2008 and 2010. These five Class 66/3 locomotives were subsequently acquired by DRS, complementing their fleet of Class 70 locomotives.

This volume takes readers on a journey through the history of the Class 66/3/4/8/7 locomotives, from their early days to the present. It focuses particularly on the southern region of the UK, showcasing its stunning landscapes and the diverse range of operations these locomotives undertake. The book provides detailed information about the specifications, performance, and operational history of these locomotives, offering a comprehensive insight into their role in modern freight transportation.

Whether you are a rail enthusiast, a transportation professional, or simply interested in the evolution of locomotives, this second volume of "Class 66: The Modern Era" is a must-read for anyone who wants to explore the world of Class 66 locomotives in greater detail.

Dimension: 243 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802822557