25.06.13
Class 321 demonstrator launched for Greater Anglia
Eversholt Rail and Greater Anglia are running a demonstrator of a refurbished Class 321 unit on the mainline this summer.
The demonstrator will show how enhancing existing EMUs can boost performance and will operate in normal service for a year. The four-car unit was upgraded by Wabtec and includes two interiors: one inner suburban layout and one outer suburban layout.
The upgrade provided new saloon and cab air conditioning, metro and suburban seat layouts, a new First Class area, refurbishment of a standard toilet, two wheelchair areas, new energy efficient lighting and glazed windows.
Eversholt will gather feedback on the unit to inform the range of options available to operators.
Mary Kenny, chief executive officer said: “We received fantastic feedback from the rail community following the Mark IV exhibition in December, which showcased the possibilities for the East Coast Mainline. Working in partnership with both Greater Anglia and Wabtec we are now able to demonstrate, not just to the rail community, but also the passengers along the Greater Anglia route, the quality that can be achieved by refurbishing the existing Class 321 fleet, is an incredibly exciting proposition.”
Ruud Haket, managing director, Greater Anglia said: “We are pleased to work with Eversholt Rail and Wabtec as part of this initiative to showcase the customer benefits of a refurbished and upgraded Class 321 train. We look forward to hearing the views of our customers on the Demonstrator train.”
Chris Weatherall, Wabtec Group’s managing director, said: “Wabtec are delighted to have worked with Eversholt Rail in the development of the Class 321 Demonstrator. The project has given Wabtec the opportunity to demonstrate our expertise in creating a modern, refurbished train interior and so improving the Greater Anglia customer experience.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]