Two Class 805 trains, built by Hitachi for Avanti West Coast, have completed their first test run to North Wales as part of their testing programme.
The bi mode trains, which are able to run on both diesel and electric power, travelled to Llandudno Junction yesterday (26th July)
These test runs are to test the trains ability before being handed over to Avanti West Coast.
More trips for the new trains are planned, to check for gauging and compatibility with the route, including a run to Holyhead.
Additionally, yesterday's run was to also check that the bilingual passenger information systems displayed the correct information.
New trains are expected on the Avanti West Coast network from 2023 and will replace the Voyager trains. Class 805 trains will run between North Wales and London, whilst Class 807 trains will run between London, the West Midlands and Liverpool.
Phil Cameron, Commercial Projects Director at First Rail said: “Yesterday marked a major milestone for the new fleet with its first test run to Llandudno Junction. This will help provide vital information on the route, and the fleet's performance, to ensure the new trains are fully prepared for when they enter into service next year.
“Our investment in the new fleet will help raise the bar for rail travellers in North Wales and is part of our wider commitment to transform the customer experience and a more sustainable operation.”
Really? We’re still buying 80x sets from Hitachi when the original GWR 80xx fleet are literally falling apart and a downgrade from the 40yo HSTs?
And the Class 221 to be replaced by the Class 805 to be cascaded to CrossCountry once the Class 805 have entered service as well the Class 807.
Hardly worth it, for the two trains a day Avanti can be bothered to run up there.