UK-based Thameslink’s new Siemens-built class 700 train has made its first passenger journey from Brighton to London Bridge.
Train operator Govia Thameslink Railways (GTR) will run these trains, which can carry up to 1,750 passengers. The company will also be responsible for long-term servicing and maintenance for the new fleet.
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Initially, the trains will be operated between Bedford and Brighton before later being used on routes between Cambridge and Peterborough, as well as other destinations in Kent and Sussex.
By the end of 2018, a total of 115 trains will be delivered, with 55 having 12 carriages and the remaining 60 having eight carriages.
Govia Thameslink’s railway engineering director Gerry McFadden said: "In future, as the train continues to prove itself, we will begin running it across London to Bedford.
"Ultimately it will give passengers much-needed capacity with longer trains throughout the rush-hour, creating at least 1,000 extra standard-class seats."
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By GlobalDataPassenger volumes have increased by 40% in the past ten years, and a further increase is expected in coming years. The government-funded Thameslink Programme was started in a bid to handle this increasing demand and to cover peak periods in the centre of London.
A sum of around £6bn has been invested in construction, including the upgrade of infrastructure and the extension of rail routes, as well as for new and longer trains and signalling systems, which enable underground-like service.
The newly introduced train features wider doors and aisles, spacious walkways between carriages, more luggage space, adaptive climate-controlled air conditioning, electronic signs, and fully accessible toilets, which are suitable for disabled passengers.
Image: Siemens-built class 700 train made its first passenger journey under Thameslink railway system. Photo: courtesy of Thameslink railway.
