Description

In this 2025 programme, we take a look at two locomotive types that are visually similar, but very different in their performance and usage.

Firstly, we trace the history of the Class 59, the American heavy haul machine which controversially brought privately owned traction

to British Rail tracks in the 1980s and still hauls impressive loads on the main line today.

Secondly, we see the hugely successful and versatile Class 66, which has revolutionized British Railfreight since the late 1990s. The UK based

Class 66 fleet has now reached nearly 400 examples, spread across five operators and with a proliferation of liveries.