18.12.19
Bombardier secures £117m contract with Avanti West Coast
Bombardier has secured a three-year contract, valued at £117m, to maintain trains for the new Avanti West Coast franchise.
The new agreement, which lasts until December 11, 2022, will see Bombardier maintain a fleet of its Class 221 diesel-electric multiple unit trains at its Central Rivers depot.
These trains will be used on mainline services by Avanti West Coast.
Each of the five-car trainsets will receive an interior refresh and be fitted with an upgraded WiFi system at Bombardier’s Ilford depot.
Bombardier previously maintained the 125mph trains for Virgin Trains when they operated the franchise.
Matt Byrne, president, UK, Bombardier Transportation, said: "We are delighted that we have reached agreement to maintain the Class 221 Super Voyager fleet for Avanti West Coast’s mainline services.
"This important contract win is a reflection of our excellent relationships with both FirstGroup and Trenitalia, our leading position in the UK services market, and to the hard work and commitment of our Central Rivers team who deliver one of the highest performing and most reliable Intercity fleet day in, day out."
Phil Whittingham, managing director, Avanti West Coast, added: "We’ve always had a good working relationship with Bombardier and look forward to continuing that for another three years.
"The Super Voyagers are a vital part of our fleet and our customers will value the interior refresh and upgrades."