Engineering news
The Hitachi Rail battery hybrid trains will replace Arriva Group’s entire Grand Central fleet, the operator announced yesterday (3 April).
The order for 45 tri-mode cars, which can run on electrified and non-electrified tracks, represents an investment of about £300m, including a 10-year maintenance contract.
The trains will be manufactured at Hitachi’s Newton Aycliffe factory in the North East. “The battery element of the order unlocks a new advanced manufacturing opportunity for the factory, and wider supply chain,” the companies said.
The tri-mode technology is designed to cut emissions and fuel consumption by about 30%. The trains will be able to enter and exit stations in zero-emission battery mode, helping to improve air quality and reduce noise in urban centres.
Transport secretary Heidi Alexander said: “Just four months since the prime minister and I welcomed a significant deal for Hitachi and its workforce in Newton Aycliffe, this new £300m investment marks yet another step forward in securing the future of rail manufacturing in the North East.”
She added: “Not only will this new battery technology deliver greener journeys for passengers, but it will also boost skills for the workforce and futureproof jobs here in Newton Aycliffe as we continue to deliver a railway fit for the 21st century.”
The trains will include 20% more seating than existing rolling stock, which the companies said would help meet increased passenger demand. Their flexible tri-mode capability means they could be used on other routes in future.
“As we celebrate 200 years since the birth of the modern railway in the North East, it's symbolic that innovative battery trains are being developed in Newton Aycliffe,” said Jim Brewin, Hitachi Rail chief director of UK and Ireland.
“Battery trains’ ability to deliver cheaper, greener and more reliable journeys means we are unlocking a new advanced manufacturing opportunity for rail today.”
The trains are due to be delivered in 2028 under a 10-year leasing arrangement, in partnership and financed by Angel Trains.
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