Abellio UK completed contracts to replace the entire East Anglia train fleet on October 5.
The £600 million-plus deal with Swiss train builder Stadler is part of what is claimed to be the largest ever privately procured order for trains in the UK.
Funding of the new trains was led by Rock Rail and SL Capital Partners, with additional co-investment equity provided by the Greater Manchester and London Pension Fund authorities.
It is the first major passenger fleet order for Stadler, which will supply 358 vehicles forming 58 trains for inter-city and regional operations. The trains will operate between London and Norwich, London and Stansted Airport, and on regional services in East Anglia. The FLIRT trains will feature 2+2 seating, WiFi and power points, and a low-floor design. The units are due to enter service between spring 2019 and autumn 2020.
- For more on the deal, read RAIL 811, published on October 5.
- For more on the FLIRTS, read RAIL 810, on sale now.
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Andrewjgwilt1989 - 05/10/2016 12:36
Wonder what new classification of these new trains will be classified as as they are to be built and to be ordered in 3-4 years time. Bombardier Aventra-Class 328 or Class 340 or Class 3xx. Stadler Flirt-Class 705 or Class 708 or Class 712 or Class 7xx.
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Sonning Cutting - 07/10/2016 16:01
I wonder why Andrew Gwilt hasn't speculated on the shape of the toilet roll holders. Surely there are more important aspects of these new trains technical specification than what numbers or colours they will sport?
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Andrewjgwilt1989 - 09/10/2016 16:46
Oh please.
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