23.01.15
D-Train idea is an insult to Northern Rail users
Source: JSW
Pacers can do 75mph. D-Trains will have a 60mph speed limit – already being called Crawlers. (And how comfortable is D78 stock even at 60?)
A two-car D-train would have less seats than a two-car Pacer and possibly no toilet (see Vivarail's example configurations). A longer train might be made up by adding trailers – reducing acceleration. And will Vivarail be offering platform extensions on the Huddersfield-Penistone line as part of the package?
Reliability in service must be questionable – the ‘white van’ diesel is unproven in the confined space under a D78 vehicle. It all sounds like an insult to Northern rail users who are being promised faster services with more desperately needed capacity.
Crawlers might be suitable for short branch lines. I suggest parts of East Anglia and non-electrified Thames Valley branches. See how commuters in Henley, Marlow and Windsor like them. They are used to something better. And the North deserves better.
Re: Vivarail set to receive first D78 for conversion into DEMU