New technology, rethinking the on-board offer for passengers, and thinking like the user are the influences behind Porterbrook’s new way of working, Chief Executive Mary Grant revealed at Rail Live on June 20.
Speaking exclusively to RAIL, Grant explained that the rolling stock leasing company has £1 billion that it wants to invest. This includes looking at different technology that can be fitted to existing fleets.
She warned that the company cannot look at investment in terms of Control Periods or franchise lengths, explaining: “Our support is leveraging private finance and to take the asset through its life. We are the stewards for life.”
This thinking is behind various developments including HydroFLEX, as well as working to reduce the emissions of its diesel fleet.
“We are actually challenging decarbonisation now. We have high-performing fleets that are future-proofed. We are being responsible,” said Grant.
“The fleet cascades are critical. The receiving operator needs support for the trains.”
Grant said conversations are taking place with Network Rail in terms of what Porterbrook must do to be ready for the introduction of the digital railway.
-
For the FULL story, read RAIL 882, published on July 3, and available digitally on Android, iPad and Kindle now.
Comment as guest
Comments
No comments have been made yet.