Great Western Railway (GWR) has confirmed purchase of a further seven bi-mode Intercity Express Trains from Hitachi Rail Europe.
The move forms part of a new multi-million pound deal signed between GWR, Hitachi Rail Europe, and Eversholt Rail Group.
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Eversholt Rail Group's CEO Mary Kenny said: "We are delighted to extend our partnership with FirstGroup, GWR, and Hitachi to deliver more new high-quality trains that will enhance the passengers’ journey experience.”
The newly ordered trains will be an addition to the 57 GWR ordered for next year as part of the UK government’s Intercity Express Programme (IEP). GWR also ordered 29 trains last year, which will come into service in 2018.
The IEP is focusing on replacing ageing Intercity 125 High-Speed Trains with faster, higher capacity, more comfortable, and more environmentally friendly services.
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GWR's managing director Mark Hopwood said: "This complements the 86 brand new trains due to start operating across the GWR network next year.
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By GlobalData“They give us greater flexibility in our fleet to deliver faster, more frequent services and additional seats for customers, particularly while Network Rail completes the modernisation of the Great Western Main Line.”
Hitachi Rail Italy will manufacture the new high-speed trains equipped with hybrid traction at its facility in Pistoia.
Image: The newly ordered trains will be an addition to the 86 trains previously ordered by GWR. Photo: courtesy of Eversholt Rail (UK)
