Class 68 spotting guide
The Class 68 is one of the most modern diesel locomotives on Britain's railways, combining a 100 mph top speed with real haulage muscle. Built for Direct Rail Services, it now turns up on smart loco-hauled passenger trains as well as freight and charters.
Photo: David Jones · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
The Class 68 is a Bo-Bo diesel-electric locomotive built by Stadler (originally Vossloh) from 2013.
About the Class 68
The Class 68 is a Bo-Bo diesel-electric locomotive built by Stadler (originally Vossloh) from 2013. Thirty-four were built for Direct Rail Services and are widely hired out to passenger operators.
History
Ordered by Direct Rail Services and introduced from 2014, the Class 68 quickly found work beyond freight: hauling Chiltern Railways loco-hauled sets and, later, TransPennine Express services with new Mk5 coaches. It remains a common sight on both passenger and freight duties.
How to identify it
Look for a sleek, modern Bo-Bo diesel with a raked, angular cab and a low-set yellow front. Running numbers are in the 68xxx series; common liveries include Direct Rail Services blue and TransPennine Express colours.
Fleet numbers
Thirty-four locomotives, numbered from 68001, operated by Direct Rail Services and hired to passenger operators.
Operators
Typical workings
- TransPennine loco-hauled services
- Chiltern Main Line services from London Marylebone
- Direct Rail Services freight and flask traffic
Where to see the Class 68
Collect the Class 68 fleet
Turn everyday sightings into a collecting challenge — track the running numbers you've caught.