ACL takes the strain

Wednesday, 25 January 2012

Two of four new GE PowerHaul locomotives for rail freight operator Freightliner have arrived at the UK port of Liverpool after having been shipped by Atlantic Container Line (ACL) from the US.

The engine weighs 123 tonnes and is the new generation of locomotives designed by GE Transportation to use less fuel and reduce carbon emissions.

The locomotives are transported on Mafi trailers capable of carrying up to 150 tonnes. On arrival in Liverpool the Mafi trailer and locomotive were moved by Tugmaster to the Liverpool Container Terminal rail head.

Here the unit was lifted by a dual crane lift from the trailer onto the rail track. After safety and brake tests the train was moved to Crewe to be prepared for service.

Ian Higby, MD of ACL said: “We are very pleased that we have been able to demonstrate to Freightliner and to GE that we have the capability and expertise to look after their valuable locomotives and deliver them safely and soundly to Liverpool. We look forward to delivering the next three and more.”