The first Class 756 and Class 231 Fast Light Inter-city and Regional Trains (FLIRTs) being built by Stadler for Transport for Wales have gone on test in Switzerland.
TfW has ordered 35 FLIRTs - 24 will be Class 756 tri-modes that can operate on diesel, overhead power or battery, while the remaining 11 will be Class 231 diesels. The tri-mode fleet comprises seven three-car and 17 four-car trains.
“From day one at TfW, our main goal has been to transform transport and improve the customer experience. These brand-new trains with better facilities all-round will provide a modern service for the people of Wales,” said TfW Chief Executive James Price.
“We’ve already started testing on some of our new trains within Wales, and I’m pleased our Stadler FLIRTs are now being tested in Europe and will then be sent to us for testing on our network.”
The new trains will be longer, with additional seats and a power socket available to every passenger. There will be air-conditioning throughout, larger passenger information screens, space for six bicycles, and level-boarding to assist wheelchair users or those pushing buggies.
Testing is likely to take several months and will be carried out in Switzerland (where Stadler is based), and in Germany, Romania and the Czech Republic. It will include realistic driving conditions aimed at ensuring the new trains meet all necessary safety standards and regulations.
To read the full story, see RAIL 937
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Andrew Gwilt - 07/09/2021 02:33
And Class 398 Citylink tram-train units that Stadler are also to manufacture for Transport for Wales.
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