The group reported a profit before tax PBT of €55.3 million, after a non-recurring loss of €19.8 million associated with the discontinuation of its loss-making printing machinery business during the period.

A full-year PBT of €237.8 million is forecast as the group reported record order intake for power infrastructure equipment due to unprecedented demand from AI data centres in the USA.

The order backlog rose sharply to approximately €2.4 billion in the first half from around €1.0 billion a year ago, and is expected to reach €4.0 billion by year end.

Production at Bergen Engines is increasing four fold by 2028 and the group has committed approximately €100 million of capital expenditure to support the expansion at its Power Solutions companies.

Chairman & CEO Anthony Langley said in his review of the business that the outlook was very positive and the group was now “at the inflection point of a new era, one inextricably linked to the emergence of artificial intelligence.”

Download Interim Trading Statement 2026  here

About Langley Holdings

Langley Holdings plc is a privately owned UK-based engineering and industrial manufacturing group, principally producing capital equipment for diverse markets worldwide. Langley businesses are either outright market leaders, or occupy strong niche positions in their respective fields, providing advanced technologies in a solutions-based approach. Langley operates in two principal areas: Power Solutions and Diverse Industrials. The group’s operations are based in Germany, Italy, France, Norway, the UK and USA, with 16 production facilities and more than 40 subsidiaries worldwide. Langley Holdings was established in 1975 by the current Chairman & CEO, Anthony Langley and remains entirely in family ownership.

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Langley Holdings, the diverse globally operating family owned British engineering and industrial group, today published its Annual Report & Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2025.

The group reported a new record profit before tax (PBT) of €152.3 million, despite a loss in its print machinery business of €43.2 million. This compares with a PBT of €125.4 million for the group in 2024.

Download Key Highlights & Chairman’s Review here 

Download full IFRS Annual Report & Accounts 2025 here

About Langley Holdings

Langley Holdings plc is a privately owned UK-based engineering and industrial manufacturing group, principally producing capital equipment for diverse markets worldwide. Langley businesses are either outright market leaders, or occupy strong niche positions in their respective fields, providing advanced technologies in a solutions-based approach. The group operates in three principal areas: Power Solutions; Print Technologies and Other Industrials. The group’s operations are based in Germany, Italy, France the UK and Norway, with 18 production facilities in Europe, the UK and the USA. The group has more than 90 subsidiaries worldwide and employs over 5,000 people. Langley Holdings was established in 1975 by the current Chairman & CEO, Anthony Langley and remains entirely in family ownership.

The post Parent Company Annual Report & Accounts 2025 appeared first on Clayton Locomotives.

However, this level of high exertion over time can lead to a drop off in performance, increased downtime and higher maintenance costs. This is when a decision about whether to replace or upgrade your existing locomotive needs to be made.

The Hidden Costs Of Replacement

Replacing shunter locomotives can be a significant financial undertaking, as new engines are expensive and the procurement process can take a number of months. This can place a strain on financial budgets but also brings a halt to operations as older units are phased out and replaced. This downtime can cause disruptions to production schedules or cause logistical bottlenecks.

There is also the fact that many industrial environments which utilise shunter locomotives require additional customisation or training for operatives, which can take further time and cost money.

Why Conversions Might Be The Smarter Alternative

Instead of replacing diesel shunter locomotives altogether, it may make more sense to try and convert existing models. This approach extends the life of assets already in your possession and can introduce a whole series of new performance and environmental upgrades. The result can potentially be a more cost-effective way to deliver long-term financial benefits.

Conversions can take many forms depending on the requirements of your rail operation. It could be that you replace more traditional, maintenance-heavy traction motors with more modern alternatives. Or you might need to install more up-to-date safety and monitoring equipment. These kinds of changes can breathe new life into old locomotives and keep them on the rails for years to come.

The Key Benefits Of Conversions

There are several key benefits of choosing to convert rather than replace older locomotives. These can include:

• Lower capital and operational costs: Conversions are much less expensive than buying a new locomotive and savings can also be made on maintenance costs.
• Extended lifespan: By modernising the components and updating outdated systems conversions can add years or even decades to the lifespan of your shunter locomotive.
• Increased availability: Updated locomotives are less prone to breakdowns and increased system reliability means your fleet is available for operations more of the time.
• Improved safety and comfort: Conversions to cabins, controls and visibility features can help to make older locomotives more comfortable and safer to operate.
• Environmental performance: Older shunters can be very emissions heavy and by updating the power system you can bring them in line with more modern emissions regulations.

Contact us if you would like to know more about the possibilities of electric shunter locomotives or shunter upgrades and conversions. Our team at Clayton Equipment would be happy to talk through your options and explain in more detail what benefits and conversion could bring to your business.

The post How To Upgrade Your Shunter Locomotives For Maximum Efficiency appeared first on Clayton Locomotives.

A Legacy Of Innovation

Our history is defined by responsiveness to changing operational needs. From our origins serving the UK market, we identified early on that the future of transport lay in more sustainable, lower-emission solutions. This insight led us to pioneer battery and hybrid locomotive technology and extend our reach into international markets.

Over recent decades, we have designed and built locomotives that meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations, including compliance with EU Stage V emissions standards. These advancements have enabled us to not only compete but lead on a global scale.

Sustainable Technology Driving the Future

Today, Clayton Equipment is recognised as a leader in battery-electric and hybrid rail haulage systems. Our Class 18 Hybrid+ locomotives, adopted by operators such as GB Railfreight and Tata Steel, offer a proven, low-emission alternative to traditional diesel fleets. These machines combine battery technology with an onboard diesel generator, enabling flexible operations while dramatically reducing CO₂ emissions.

Our battery locomotives are also ideal for noise-sensitive or enclosed environments, such as metro networks, underground mines, and tunnels. Complementing these innovations is our LocoWatch system, which delivers real-time performance data to optimise energy usage, reduce maintenance downtime, and extend locomotive lifespan.

A Global Footprint

Our evolution from UK-based manufacturer to internationally recognised engineering partner demonstrates our ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic marketplace. With exports to over 60 countries, our sustainable rail solutions now support a diverse range of operations, from heavy industry to public transport. This global reach allows us to play a meaningful role in advancing greener rail networks worldwide.

The Path To Zero Emissions

Looking ahead, our focus is on the continued development of zero-emission locomotives. Through ongoing investment in research and development, we are advancing energy storage technologies and exploring alternative fuels such as hydrogen and synthetic alternatives. Our goal is to deliver fully zero-emission rail haulage, aligning with long-term decarbonisation strategies and regulatory expectations.

Sustainability is not just a guiding principle — it is the foundation of our future operations. We work closely with partners, operators, and regulators to meet evolving standards and ensure our technology contributes meaningfully to the future of rail.

Join us in celebrating 90 years of innovation at Clayton Equipment — and discover how our battery and hybrid technologies are setting new benchmarks for sustainable rail transport. Speak to an expert today!

The post Celebrating 90 Years Of Progress: Our Commitment To Sustainability appeared first on Clayton Locomotives.

As one of the UK’s leading suppliers of tunnel locomotives, Clayton Equipment prides itself on being able to offer solutions that reduce lead times for tunnelling projects. This can include faster delivery times and streamlined manufacturing processes. We also offer a wide range of pre-configured options to help minimise delays. The modular design of our tunnel motor locomotive also allows for customisation without extensive lead times, which means our customers get the equipment they need, when they need it. Keep reading to discover more about how we’re able to help businesses conquer tunnel lead times.

Global manufacturing

Our established global network of suppliers ensures parts and services are readily available, allowing us to deliver our locomotives with minimal lead times. It also means we are able to offer any parts or additional equipment without significant delay, minimising downtime throughout the project lifecycle and beyond.

Innovative solutions 

At Clayton Equipment, we understand how critical lead times can be in tunnelling projects which is why we offer locomotives to help you stay on schedule and within budget. But it’s more than just timely delivery. Our innovative solutions mean our train shunters and switchers can be deployed across a range of tunneling projects and construction sites across their lifespan. We can also assist in the provision of drilling machines, which are designed and manufactured to operate within a variety of parameters. These innovative solutions include fast gauge adjustments without the need for specialised tools or facilities and simplified operator controls for reduced maintenance and training costs.

Other low cost and flexible solutions include reliable system controls and the use of off the shelf components to minimise spare part lead time and maximise availability.

Tunnelling case study

Our ability to meet tunnelling lead time requirements is well demonstrated by our recent provision of a 500 metre long works train which was designed, built and delivered to our client. This specially commissioned train assisted in the drilling, tunnel wall and cable installation supports along the complete tunnel length of 55 km.

Whether it’s a diesel train, an underground battery locomotive or a specially commissioned train shunter for tunnelling projects, our aim at Clayton Equipment is to deliver exactly what the customer requires, on time and on budget.

Speak to an expert and discuss your tunnelling lead times or find out more about our locomotive services.

The post Conquering Lead Times In Tunnelling Projects With Clayton Locomotives appeared first on Clayton Locomotives.

Of course, with all this interest comes a lot of misinformation and one of the key areas of focus (and even objection) has been the limited lifespan of battery hybrid trains. So, the big question when it comes to battery locomotives is exactly how long does the battery last before it needs replacing? The answer could affect the popularity and uptake of battery hybrids on a larger scale. Although, as you will see, the reality is that battery technology is already very advanced and only going to improve over time.

Below you can find more information about locomotive battery specifications and the factors that currently affect battery life.

Average Lifespan

So, what is the average lifespan of a battery for a diesel hybrid locomotive? The answer is that it depends on various factors. In general, locomotive batteries typically last between 5 to 10 years, although this can vary according to usage. The different types of battery available can also impact the longevity. For example lead-acid batteries tend to last a little longer, with an average of 7 to 12 years while lithium-ion batteries can regularly exceed 10 years.

Influencing Factors

A five year discrepancy in the average lifespan might seem like a lot but there are multiple factors influencing the life period of a battery. Not only does it heavily depend on the battery type (whether it is lead-acid or lithium-ion, for example) but the usage patterns of the battery are also key to its longevity. Then there are the environmental conditions such as average temperatures and moisture levels, as well as the maintenance practices carried out by the train operator. There is also the fact that in a hybrid locomotive, lead-acid batteries have a longer lifespan as the diesel engine compensates for any decline in performance over time.

Technological Improvements

As mentioned above, battery technology is constantly improving. Advances in battery technology, particularly lithium-ion, are leading to longer lifespans and better performance, largely thanks to better energy density and management systems. So in the future, hybrid batteries can be expected to have significantly longer lifespans.

Replacement Signs

Of course, batteries do need to be replaced and there are often tell-tale signs they are coming to the end of their useful life. Indicators for battery replacement include the inability to hold a charge, increased charging times and reduced locomotive performance. If you find that batteries are frequently showing replacement signs towards the lower end of their average lifespan, then this may indicate that regular maintenance procedures need to be enhanced.

Here at Clayton Equipment, our team specialises in custom-designed battery locomotives and collaborates closely with our customers to find optimised solutions, including battery capacity and regenerative braking systems.

To find out more about battery conversions or to book a demo of one of our latest battery hybrid locomotives, get in touch with a member of our team.

The post How Long Does The Battery In A Diesel Hybrid Locomotive Last appeared first on Clayton Locomotives.

The order incorporates Clayton’s Hybrid Technology. The loco being supplied is a CBD40, which is self-contained with onboard charging capability to enable long-range use without mains charging, and offers a low-to-no emission solution for transporting cane to Mackay Sugar’s factories. This allows Mackay Sugar the effectiveness of a loco twice the size but in a carbon-efficient way, with reduced maintenance and operational costs. In addition, the loco’s regenerative braking ensures reduced brake wear, and with the innovative Battery Technology, the loco charging time is reduced substantially when mains charging is used.

In addition, the locomotives are fitted with the very latest diesel engines, again providing the most efficient and cleanest technology available in the market today. This  supports Mackay Sugars objective in achieving reduced carbon emissions during their rail operations whilst also helping to create a greener future for the local industry.

Along with the CBD40’s, Clayton will produce the brake vans that will run at the rear of the train, and with improved radio communication the vans  can be effective when more than 1.7km from the loco.

Steve Gretton, Chairman of Clayton Equipment stated “We are very pleased with this new order to supply Mackay Sugar with sustainable, low emission, environmentally compliant equipment which meets their commitment to invest in technology and provide cost savings with long term durability. The collaboration with Mackay Sugar allowed us to gain the understanding of what they required to achieve the right solution and ensure the best return on investment. Protecting their business in a clean environmentally way.”

A spokesperson for Mackay Sugar added “We are thrilled to collaborate with Clayton Equipment on the development of hybrid locomotives and brake vans, benefiting not only Mackay Sugar but the broader Australian sugar industry. These innovative additions mark a significant milestone for Mackay Sugar, reflecting our commitment to integrating cutting-edge safety features and advanced technology into our locomotive fleet.”

For more than 90 years, Clayton Equipment have lead the way in offering advanced low emission locomotives for mainline, shunting and in the mining sectors.

The post Clayton Equipment tastes sweet success in Australia appeared first on Clayton Locomotives.

Trolley wire locomotives are powered by electricity transmitted through overhead wires. The electrical current is supplied by feeder stations placed at regular intervals along the track. The locomotive receives this power via a trolley pole, bow collector, or pantograph mounted on its top. A key component of the system is the automatic switch, which serves as the primary power switch for the main circuit. This switch provides critical overcurrent protection and allows operators to start and stop the locomotive safely and reliably.

Advantages Of Trolley Wire Locomotives In Mining Operations

The Impact Of Diesel Fumes

One of the most significant reasons to choose trolley wire locomotives over diesel-powered alternatives is the issue of diesel fumes. Diesel engines release exhaust gases that must be extracted from underground mines using large-scale ventilation systems. These systems are not only costly to install and operate but also add to the logistical complexity of mining operations.

While ventilation remains necessary for worker safety even with trolley wire locomotives, the absence of diesel fumes significantly reduces the burden on ventilation systems. This translates to lower operational costs and improved energy efficiency in maintaining air quality.

Diesel fumes also pose serious health risks to the workforce. Prolonged exposure to diesel exhaust can cause both short- and long-term health conditions, with evidence linking it to an increased risk of lung cancer. By eliminating diesel emissions, trolley wire locomotives contribute to a safer and healthier working environment for mining personnel.

Versatility

Trolley wire locomotives excel in both underground and surface mining operations. They provide reliable and powerful transport of materials and equipment, even in extreme conditions. Mining environments often feature high temperatures, humidity, and altitude variations, and trolley wire systems handle these challenges effectively. The compact overhead wire system also saves valuable space in tight underground tunnels where logistical constraints are common.

Flexibility

Modern trolley wire locomotives can seamlessly switch between power sources. This capability allows them to operate on both electrified and non-electrified tracks by combining overhead wire power with traction batteries. This dual-mode operation is essential for navigating areas where overhead wires cannot be installed or where additional power is needed for temporary tasks.

Advanced Technology

While trolley wire systems have been used for decades, modern locomotives incorporate cutting-edge technologies to improve efficiency and safety:

• Remote Control and Automation : Many modern trolley wire locomotives are equipped with remote control or full automation capabilities, allowing for operation without an onboard driver. This not only enhances safety but also increases operational flexibility.
• Optimised Efficiency : Advanced designs focus on reducing energy consumption and operational costs, helping mining operations maintain profitability while lowering emissions.

Environmental Benefits

As industries strive toward net-zero emissions, trolley wire locomotives offer significant environmental advantages. When operating on overhead power or battery, these locomotives produce zero emissions, contributing to reduced carbon footprints. This is particularly beneficial in confined or underground spaces, where diesel-powered locomotives pose health risks due to exhaust emissions. The electrified system also reduces reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with sustainability goals.

Multi-Application Design

Trolley wire systems are not confined to mining. They are also used in metro systems, mainline railways, and industrial depots, showcasing their adaptability and cost-effectiveness. For mining operators, this versatility ensures compatibility with other infrastructure or potential future applications.

Why Choose Trolley Wire Locomotives?

Trolley wire locomotives are a proven solution for overcoming the unique challenges of mining operations. Their ability to handle heavy loads, navigate confined spaces, and operate efficiently in diverse environments makes them an indispensable tool for modern mining. By integrating advanced technology, they offer improved safety, lower operational costs, and a sustainable alternative to traditional fuel-based systems.

Book a demo with the team at Clayton Equipment today and discover how our innovative solutions, such as modern trolley wire locomotives, can transform your business or get in touch!

The post Why Trolley Wire Locomotives Are Ideal For Effective Mining Operations appeared first on Clayton Locomotives.

But how exactly does a diesel-electric locomotive work , and why not simply rely on a single power source like batteries or external electrification? This article explores the mechanics behind diesel-electric locomotives and why they might be the ideal choice for your railway operations.

How A Diesel Electric Locomotive Works

At the heart of the system is a diesel engine, typically a two-stroke or four-stroke internal combustion engine. The diesel engine’s role is to convert the chemical energy stored in diesel fuel into mechanical energy. However, unlike traditional diesel-powered systems, the engine does not directly drive the wheels. Instead, it drives a generator to produce electricity.

The mechanical energy from the diesel engine drives an electric generator or alternator. Generators produce direct current (DC) electricity, while alternators generate alternating current (AC). Modern locomotives predominantly use alternators because of their efficiency and reliability. The electricity produced is then processed for optimal use and is sent to traction motors mounted on the locomotive’s axles. These motors convert electrical energy back into mechanical energy, driving the wheels. This two-stage process allows for smoother and more efficient power delivery compared to direct mechanical transmissions.

Modern diesel-electric locomotives are equipped with sophisticated computerised control systems. These systems regulate the power output of the diesel engine and manage electricity distribution to the traction motors. Operators can optimise performance by adjusting throttle controls to match load demands, ensuring efficient fuel consumption and minimising wheel slip under varying conditions.

What Are The Advantages Of Diesel-Electric Locomotives?

Hybrid Flexibility

These types of locomotives can combine diesel-electric power with traction batteries, which store braking energy and act as an energy accumulator. This stored energy can be reused to enhance efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and improve overall performance. As a result, hybrid systems offer significant cost savings and operational benefits across industrial and transport sectors.

Fuel Economy Of Hybrid Systems

Hybrid locomotives leverage traction batteries to optimise engine efficiency. By ensuring the engine does not idle unnecessarily, the battery allows the engine to operate within its most efficient power curve. This reduces fuel consumption, minimises energy wastage, and extends the lifespan of critical engine components. Such optimisation is particularly advantageous in industrial settings where consistent power delivery and cost efficiency are paramount.

Efficiency

Electric motors are extremely efficient at converting electrical energy into mechanical energy. This offers more precise and responsive control of power, especially when compared to the direct mechanical or hydraulic connections between the engine and the wheels. This means operators have more control over acceleration, speed and braking, making the locomotives more flexible and safer to use.

Even Power Distribution

Another key advantage of the diesel electric system is its ability to distribute electric power evenly across multiple axles. This improves the traction of the locomotive, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks which are often required in industrial and mining operations . Having evenly distributed power allows for greater pulling capability and means even smaller engines can provide high levels of traction.

Enhanced Handling

Electric motors are very responsive and can be easily reversed, which is especially useful in settings where frequent manoeuvring is required, such as rail yards and industrial facilities. These types of diesel-electric motors also deliver smoother and quicker changes in direction, enhancing manoeuvrability and improving ride quality for operatives.

Why Choose Diesel-Electric Locomotives?

The diesel-electric design combines the flexibility of diesel power with the efficiency and precision of electric systems. This hybrid approach makes them versatile, cost-effective, and suitable for a wide range of applications, from freight transport to industrial operations.

By using a two-stage power generation and distribution system, diesel-electric locomotives offer unparalleled efficiency, better traction, and adaptability to various rail environments. They are a compelling choice for modern railway operations, balancing performance with sustainability.

Book a demo or get in touch with a member of our expert team to further discuss the benefits of diesel electric power and how it could enhance your operations.

The post How Does A Diesel Electric Locomotive Work? appeared first on Clayton Locomotives.

These days, things are a little different and the steam engine has largely been confined to museums in favour of more energy-efficient options. In modern mining, there are two main choices: electric and diesel. However, the question remains: are electric trains better than diesel or does diesel have the edge? Let’s take a closer look and compare the two main types of mining locomotive.

Electric Vs Diesel Locomotive: The Pros & Cons

Both electric and diesel locomotives bring significant advantages to mining operations, but their distinct characteristics mean they suit different scenarios.

Diesel Locomotives: A Versatile Workhorse

Diesel locomotives offer versatility, excelling in remote locations or areas without established infrastructure. Their mobility and robust power make them a reliable option for surface mining operations, particularly in open-pit environments where rail systems may be temporary or require flexibility.

However, diesel engines come with notable downsides. They produce significant greenhouse gas emissions, making them less sustainable, especially in underground operations where ventilation costs can skyrocket. Furthermore, diesel engines require regular maintenance, adding to operational costs.

Electric Locomotives: A Clean and Efficient Alternative

Electric locomotives are increasingly favoured for their environmental benefits. Producing no direct emissions, they improve air quality in confined spaces, such as underground mines, where worker safety and ventilation are critical concerns. They are also highly energy-efficient, with operating costs often lower than their diesel counterparts.

It’s important to note that there are two main types of electric locomotives, each with their own distinct advantages and disadvantages:

Battery-Powered Locomotives

• Battery-Powered Locomotives require minimal infrastructure (only battery chargers and possibly spare batteries)
• Lower upfront infrastructure costs
• More flexible deployment options
• Limited by battery range
• Suitable for shorter routes or operations with regular charging opportunities

Overhead Line Locomotives

• Unlimited operational range while connected to power lines
• Consistent power supply
• Higher infrastructure costs due to overhead line installation
• Less flexible as they’re restricted to routes with overhead lines
• Ideal for established, long-term mining operations

The choice between these electric options depends on factors such as route length, operation duration, and available infrastructure budget.

How To Make Your Choice

Before making a decision between either a diesel or battery locomotive for mining, it is worth considering a number of key factors. These include the type of mine where the locomotive will be operating. For example, is it a surface or underground mine? If it is an underground facility, will there be sufficient ventilation in place to deal with the emissions of a diesel engine?

On the other hand, will it be possible to install the infrastructure required for an electric system in a more confined underground setting? You also need to consider the haulage distance, which can be an issue for the limited range of electric locomotives. There are also issues around noise, especially in residential areas.

The Hybrid Approach

It is important to remember that it doesn’t necessarily have to be a black and white choice. The best option may indeed be the hybrid approach. This could include using diesel power for surface operations or remote locations where haulage distance is a factor. And then using electric power for underground operations or where there is existing infrastructure.

These potential options are only becoming more and more viable each year as the future of mining locomotives continues to evolve rapidly, driven by advancements in battery technology, renewable energy integration, and automation. For example, regenerative braking systems, already a feature in electric locomotives, are helping reduce energy consumption by up to 33%, making these systems even more efficient. In addition, companies are trialling fully battery-electric locomotives, with zero emissions and increasing range, signalling a shift towards cleaner mining operations.

What Next?

When deciding between electric and diesel locomotives for mining operations, consider your unique operational requirements, infrastructure availability, and environmental goals. Diesel locomotives are well-suited for remote and flexible operations, while electric locomotives excel in controlled environments with established infrastructure. For many mining companies, a hybrid approach may offer the optimal balance between sustainability and practicality.

Whatever your mining locomotive needs, Clayton Equipment can help assess your requirements and recommend the right solution. Speak to one of our experts today to learn more about our range of diesel, electric, and hybrid options that are designed to meet the demands of the modern mining industry.

The post Electric Vs Diesel Locomotives: Which Is Better For Mining Operations? appeared first on Clayton Locomotives.