Chiltern Railways, one of the UK's largest private train operators, has launched a procurement process to acquire a fleet of low-emission multiple units. The operator is seeking proposals from established rolling stock manufacturers, owners and modifiers for the supply of between 20 and 70 new or converted low-emission rolling stock multiple units, and associated maintenance, infrastructure and depot upgrade services.
The new trains must achieve a meaningful reduction in the exhaust emissions and exterior noise levels compared to Chiltern's existing diesel multiple units, particularly in urban areas. The operator is also looking for trains that are energy efficient and have a long range, so that they can operate on Chiltern's long-distance routes without the need to refuel or recharge.
The procurement process is expected to be completed in early 2024, with the new trains entering service in 2027-28. The total value of the contract is estimated to be up to £400m.
Chiltern Railways is not the only UK train operator that is looking to acquire a fleet of low-emission multiple units. Other operators, such as Northern and TransPennine Express, have also announced plans to electrify or hybridise their fleets in the coming years.
Northern has also invited expressions of interest in a framework contract for 450 multiple-units. It’s initial order would be for ‘multi-mode’ units with Northern also having the option to order any further sets in either battery-electric or electric-only trains.
The framework agreement, which is currently live on the UK government website is also asking for any rolling stock ordered to have a minimum service life of 35 years.
The Railway Industry Association (RIA) has welcomed the new tenders. David Clarke, RIA’s Technical Director, said: “With a recent RIA report calling on the Government to take urgent decisions around rolling stock, we naturally welcome these two significant tenders of up to 520 low carbon multiple units.”
The RIA recently released a report that highlighted the need for flexibility regarding low carbon rolling stock and also emphasised the need for new orders to mitigate any risk for the UK supply chain.
“The industry and whole country will continue to benefit from these rolling stock orders”, Clarke added. “These tenders demonstrate a strong commitment to the future of the supply chain, resulting in a significant strengthening of the pipeline of work which will deliver modern trains equipped with cleaner technologies. However, it is important to recognise however that this volume of orders is needed annually for the supply chain to be able to permanently break out of the historic boom and bust cycle.”
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