The first batch of a new fleet of 85 box wagons ordered by VTG Rail UK for DB Cargo has been delivered to the freight operator, boosting its haulage capability.
The wagons were built by Astra Rail in Romania to a unique and enhanced specification, with high strength side walls, floors and cant rails making them more resilient to damage than older designs. They are fitted with track friendly bogies and have a high payload meaning they are extremely efficient and economical to operate.
Ian Shaw, VTG’s Sales and Marketing Director, said: “Our experience allows us to offer our customers market leading levels of design, availability and reliability, not just in the short term, but for the life of the wagons.”
Mick Tinsley, Head of Sector BIC for DB Cargo, added: “These wagons will further improve our box wagon fleet to support the continued growth in the construction market for rail and supports DB Cargo’s long-term strategy to provide the most efficient wagon solutions for our customers.”
The order and arrival of these wagons reflects the optimism still running through the rail construction sector.
Billions of pounds worth of major infrastructure projects have been given the green light in recent years and there are many others in the pipeline. Schemes such as Crossrail 1 and 2, HS1 and 2, Hinkley power station, railway upgrades all need rail wagons to bring equipment and materials in and out of sites.