25.11.16
Vivarail Class 230 to start mainline testing
Vivarail’s prototype Class 230 has been sent off for mainline testing prior to entering service on the Coventry to Nuneaton (NUCKLE) line.
The 230-001 set off by road from the Quinton Rail Technology Centre yesterday to Tyseley Locomotive Works, where it will undergo the testing.
Once the testing is complete, the two cars will be joined by a third middle car, which has been designed to showcase a variety of interior layouts, including a Universal Access Toilet, with different seating and door styles.
After mileage accumulation and crew training, London Midland will begin operating the train on the NUCKLE line.
Adrian Shooter, CEO of Vivarail, said: “This is a very proud day for the whole team who have worked tirelessly to prepare our prototype train. We have had a few setbacks along the way, unsurprising on a project of this scale, but today shows what can be achieved with determination, skill and pure hard work.
“What we are providing is a brand new, state of the art train, made affordable by re-using the bodyshells and bogies, and able to be in service six months after order. It’s the train I dreamt of commissioning years ago!”
He added that the Class 230s, which are built from upcycled bodyshells and bogies from the D78s, feature stop-start engines, designed to save fuel, and are maintainable on the trackside.
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