Development for Europorte 2

Folkestone, Kent, United Kingdom – In line with its development policy, Eurotunnel has acquired five series 92 (“Class 92”) locomotives following a tender offer launched by Eurostar, the owner of a fleet of this type of engine.

The Class 92 locomotives are Tunnel compliant. The value of the acquisition is slightly above £2 million (equivalent to €2.9 million).

This investment demonstrates Eurotunnel’s desire to develop cross-Channel rail freight and to make the most of its know how in the sector through its subsidiary, Europorte 2.

These multi-current electric locomotives, built in the United Kingdom, between 1993 and 1996, by Brush Traction and ABB Transportation, which is now part of Bombardier, have a maximum power of 5MW (6,800 horsepower) and a top speed of 140 km/h.

Following a major service, these engines will join Eurotunnel’s existing fleet of 57 shuttle pulling locomotives.

Jacques Gounon, Chairman of Eurotunnel and Europorte 2, said:
“It is our firm intention to contribute to the development of cross-Channel rail freight through our subsidiary Europorte 2. We will implement, with determination and pragmatism, a project which had not previously been brought to fruition. Europorte 2 will offer a simple and efficient service to cross-Channel customers”.

Eurotunnel manages the infrastructure of the Channel Tunnel and operates accompanied truck shuttle and passenger shuttle (car and coach) services between Folkestone, UK and Calais, France. Eurotunnel also earns toll revenue from train operators (Eurostar for rail passengers, and EWS and SNCF for rail freight) which use the Tunnel. Eurotunnel is quoted in London, Paris and Brussels.