VL class

The VL class is a class of diesel locomotives built by Avteq, at a factory in Sunshine, Melbourne for Railfirst Asset Management between 2007 and 2009.^[2] Built on the EMD GT26 platform, the class was an evolution of the Freight Australia XR class.^[3][4]

VL class
VL355 at Moorabbin
Type and origin Power type Diesel-electric Builder Avteq Model EMD GT26 Build date 2007 - 2009 Total produced 12
Specifications Configuration: ​  • Commonwealth Co-Co Gauge 1,435 mm (4 ft 8+1⁄2 in) 1,600 mm (5 ft 3 in) Loco weight 130.0 tonnes[1] Fuel capacity 9,200 litres ((4,200 litres on Broad Gauge)) Prime mover EMD 16-645E3B Alternator AR10A4 Traction motors D78 Cylinders V16
Performance figures Maximum speed 115 km/h Power output 2,237 kW (3,000 hp)
Career Operators Rail First Asset Management Number in class 12 Numbers VL351-VL362 Delivered 2007 First run 2007 Last run 2009 Current owner Rail First Asset Management Disposition 12 in service

They have been hired to a variety of operators and have operated in all mainline states. Most entered service on lease to FreightLink hauling iron ore trains from Pine Creek to Darwin.^[5] As at 2010, some remained on hire to FreightLink while others were engaged in hauling grain trains in other states. All are named after Australian racehorses.^[6]

As at February 2022, nine of the 12 were being used by Qube.^[7] As at September 2023, five are operating on the broad gauge With the Numbers 351, 353, 356, 357 & 360. with the other seven on standard gauge With the Numbers 352, 354, 355, 358, 359, 361 & 362 .^[8]

Avteq designed a second locomotive class, but none were ever manufactured.^[9] The company was deregistered in 2013.^[10] Southern Shorthaul Railroad would build two BRM class locomotives to the design in 2013.