26.07.18
TPE’s Hitachi Class 802 Nova 1 fleet begins testing in UK
TransPennine Express’ new Hitachi Class 802 Nova 1 fleet has begun testing with its first successful run between Doncaster and Darlington.
Following the first TPE bullet train arriving in the UK last month, the 19 new five-carriage trains will all be bi-modes, allowing them to change from electric to diesel power mid-journey.
The trains will be able to run in a five or 10 carriage formation, capable of speeds of up to 140mph in electric and 125mph using diesel engines.
Hitachi will continue to test the fleet in the coming months, calling at major stations across the north and Scotland. From 2019 it will connect the north and Scotland, travelling to cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, York, Newcastle, and Edinburgh.
Chief executive of Transport for the North Barry White said the new fleet is further evidence of a “brighter future.”
He added: “We are delighted to welcome these exciting new trains into the North, among the first of many new trains that will change the lives of rail users throughout the region, as we begin a period of major and sustained investment in our transport infrastructure.”
An additional 161 seats compared to the current vehicles will allow customers will benefit from spacious carriages, providing extra legroom and additional luggage space.
Berry Sas, projects director for Hitachi Rail Europe said: “Our modern intercity trains will be calling at all stations along the route ahead of carrying passengers next year. Passengers will instantly recognise our high-tech trains, sporting an aerodynamic design first pioneered in Japan.”
The fleet is being built by Hitachi and financed by Angel Trains. The trains are currently using Hitachi’s new £80million depot in Doncaster.
The Hitachi intercity trains (Class 802) were ordered by First Group for TransPennine Express in 2016.
Darren Higgins, commercial director at TPE, has been invited to speak at TransCityRail North on 4 October to discuss TPE’s new trains and rail investment for the north. Don’t miss your chance to attend, visit the website here.
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Image credit: TransPennine Express