Acres Engineering Joins Rail Operations Group for Historic Class 93 Locomotive Naming

The first in its class, has been named ‘The Armed Forces Covenant’ – a tribute that carries deep significance. Acres Engineering proudly holds the Gold Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, reflecting our ongoing commitment to supporting serving personnel, veterans, reservists, and cadets. To witness this milestone alongside fellow Covenant supporters was both moving and inspiring.

200 Years of Rail Innovation

The timing of the event could not have been more fitting. 27th September 1825 marked the day when Robert Stephenson’s pioneering Locomotion No.1 set off from Darlington on the world’s first public railway journey, carrying passengers and coal to Stockton. It was a journey that not only transformed local communities but also launched a transport revolution across Britain and the globe.

Two centuries later, the naming of the Class 93 on the very same date paid tribute to that legacy while looking boldly to the future. Standing in Shildon – widely regarded as the birthplace of the modern railway – was a reminder that innovation is part of the UK’s DNA.

A Step-Change in Technology

The Class 93 is unlike any locomotive before it. It is the UK’s first tri-mode locomotive, capable of running on:

• Electric power when connected to overhead lines.
• Diesel power for non-electrified routes.
• Battery power for zero-emission operation in sensitive environments.

This versatility not only reduces carbon emissions but also provides rail operators with greater efficiency and flexibility. For Acres, as a company that champions innovation and engineering excellence, it was inspiring to see first-hand how cutting-edge design continues to transform industries.

Heritage Meets the Future

During the ceremony, guests had the opportunity to see both the original Rocket and its replica – the iconic locomotive designed by George and Robert Stephenson that won the Rainhill Trials in 1829. Standing alongside the newly named Class 93, the contrast between the two was striking. One symbolised the dawn of the railway age; the other points to its sustainable future.

It was a vivid reminder of how far engineering has advanced – and of the role innovation continues to play in shaping our world.

Acres’ Role in Supporting Defence and Industry

As a business rooted in the Midlands but working across the UK’s key industrial sectors – rail, defence, aerospace, automotive, and energy – Acres Engineering understands the importance of both heritage and progress. Our People First Pledge and long-standing support for the Armed Forces Covenant reflect our belief that engineering success is built not only on technology, but also on people, values, and partnerships.

We were honoured to share this occasion with veterans, reservists, cadets, and fellow employer organisations – a community that unites to uphold both our industrial heritage and our shared commitment to the future.

Looking Ahead

The naming of ‘The Armed Forces Covenant’ is more than a ceremonial milestone – it symbolises a continuing journey. Just as Stephenson’s first journey connected communities and transformed opportunities, the Class 93 signals the next step in building a cleaner, more efficient, and more resilient railway for generations to come.

At Acres Engineering, we are proud to play our part in this ongoing story – supporting our customers with bespoke engineering solutions, strengthening our communities through skills and outreach, and standing alongside our Armed Forces family.

 

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Acres have a range of standard products but also support clients with custom machinery and medium-high volume products such as trolleys, stillages etc. 

We have manufactured lots of different tables / workstations / workbenches for various industries.

We also manufacture access platforms, jigs and fixtures and many other types of production support solutions / products. 

Talk to us today about your requirements: [email protected] / 01332695240 / Contact Us Form

 

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Want to know more about Acres Engineering?

We are based in the UK from our Headquarters in Derbyshire, England and have a European office in Malaga, Spain within the EU.

 

Find out more about where we have been and what we have been up to by checking out our latest blog posts.

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