TransPennine Express have announced that the first of their new Nova 3 trains has begun testing at the Velim Test centre in the Czech Republic and is on track to enter service towards the end of 2018.
The train will undergo a wide variety of different tests including aerodynamics, braking and onboard information systems.
The 13 five carriage trains each have 291 seats, this has increased when compared to 181 seats on the current Class 185 Diesel Multiple Unit trains that currently operate under TPE on the route.
Each new train features new seating and interiors, more luggage space, plug and USB charging points, free WiFi, and Exstream entertainment system featuring live TV, news and films.
Modern display screens will also feature that will provide real-time reservation information, making life easier for passengers.
Once testing is complete in the Czech Republic, the trains will travel to the UK, where further testing will be carried out before the fleet are introduced to the public to carry passengers between Liverpool, Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds, York, Scarborough and Middlesbrough.
The new trains are being manufactured by Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF) and financed by Beacon Rail. A class 68 locomotive will be hauling the trains, which is also owned by Beacon Rail and leased by Direct Rail Services (DRS).
What did the officials say?
Leo Goodwin, Managing Director for TransPennine Express said:
“It's great that our plans are now becoming reality and I can't wait for our customers to see and experience these futuristic trains for themselves.
“New trains mean more seats and the experience onboard these new carriages will be completely transformed. Customers in this part of the world will soon be travelling on some of the newest trains in the country.”
- Visit the TransPennine Express website
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Correction: 19 Class 802/2’s to be built for TPE to be corrected. As Class 802/3’s are to be built for Hull Trains from next year that they will be reviving 5 of the Class 802/3’s to replace the Class 180’s that will be transferred to Grand Central.
Hi Andrew,
Thanks for your comment and extra information.
The press release says 13 five carriage trains (if we are looking at the same spot)
Press release: https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/media-centre/news/2018/april/first-nova-3-train-on-track-for-delivery-in-the-north-of-england
The press release is where we got all of our information from to write this article.
Regards,
Michael
Thats ok. 🙂
Nova 1: 19 5-Car Class 802/3 Bi-Mode (Hitachi AT300)
Nova 2: 12 5-Car Class 397 EMU (CAF Civity) (That will replace the Class 350/4’s to West Midlands Trains)
Nova 3: 13 5-Car Mk5a Carriages+Class 68 Locomotive
With Mk5a also being manufactured by CAF.