|
If the TOC's can build a case for any new locos, they will be built! When BR was a nationalised industry the bosses thought of a figure and that many locos were provided. Private enterprise works to very different rules. Only if TOCs can work in unison will any large enough orders cause UK manufacturers bid for the work. If orders are for 10 - 15 units at a time, only established builders with "off the shelf" products would be interested, and they unfortunately are either European, Japanese or American, all of whom work to a different loading gauge and have to adapt their products.
I agree that by 2020 there will be a need for 500hp shunters, 2000hp departmental locos etc. and I can't see anything in the pipeline.
|