21.06.18
TfL reveals ultramodern London Overground trains
Brand new state-of-the-art London Overground electric trains have been unveiled to the public, hosting Wi-Fi and USB charging capabilities and having the capacity to hold 700 passengers.
The stunning new fleet of 54 Class 710 trains, operated by Arriva Rail London, will be in passenger service in November, which TfL claim will “transform journeys” for thousands of London Overground passengers using the ever-growing line from Gospel Oak to Barking.
The new arrivals will have four-cars, doubling the capacity of the diesel trains currently in use; will be air-conditioned and include temperature control; and include digital information screens, giving customers real-time travel information whilst on their travels.
Over the summer, the new trains will undergo final testing and drivers will complete extensive training on the fleet, TfL’s director of rail and sponsored services Jonathan Fox said. He added: "Our new state-of-the-art British built London Overground trains will be an exciting addition to London's transport network and help boost capacity on some of the most busy and popular lines.
“We are very keen to see them introduced into service as soon as possible so our patient customers can benefit from the features onboard.”
The new trains, designed and built by Bombardier Transport in Derby, will debut a new colour scheme and unique seat moquette. The carriages will be of a ‘walk-through’ layout — allowing for greater capacity and improved accessibility with more wheelchair spaces.
Following the first eight new trains being introduced to the Gospel Oak and Barking line, the fleet will be used on the Watford to Euston route, and further on to services from Liverpool Street to Cheshunt, Chingford, and Enfield Town.
The lines used by the fleet underwent the final stages of work from Network Rail to electrify the Gospel Oak to Barking route last week. The electrication of the lines is part of the Barking Riverside extension, which will add 4km to the route, taking it from Barking to a new station at Barking Riverside. Construction is expected to begin later this year, with train services starting during 2021.
Will Rogers, managing director Arriva Rail London, said: "The London Overground is vitally important to the thousands of people who use it every day. This is why we are focused on continuously improving the travelling experience for our customers and working environment for our people.”
The trains are being built at Bombardier Transport where 120 local engineering staff have worked on the design and testing of the trains. A further 170 staff have been working on manufacturing the trains, with 50% of these recruited specifically to fulfil the contract.
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