The British Rail Class 66 is a heavy freight diesel locomotive manufactured by EMD, widely used across the UK and European rail networks. Crews nicknamed it after its distinctive pitched roof, which resembles a simple garden shed. Despite the mocking name, these units are the primary workhorses of the British freight network, known for their reliability and pulling power on heavy aggregate and intermodal trains.
Heard on the job
We've a shed leading the aggregate train out of the quarry this afternoon.
Insider tip
The nickname originated because the pitched roof and corrugated side panels make the locomotive look like a rolling metal storage building.