UK-based train leasing firm Angel Trains and Abellio Greater Anglia have unveiled a pilot re-engineered Class 317 vehicle that was developed as part of a joint project between the two companies and Bombardier Transportation.
The pre-series vehicle will feature new seating, additional grab poles, larger vestibule areas, CCTV cameras, plug sockets, Wi-Fi and passenger information systems.
The new vehicle, which is currently undergoing final testing, will enter passenger service with Abellio Greater Anglia in the first quarter of 2014. These trains are the mainstay of Abellio Greater Anglia’s West Anglia services to Chingford, Enfield, Hertford East, Harlow, Bishops Stortford and Cambridge, operating more than 300 services every weekday.
A major retractioning project was also undertaken to move the train from a DC to an AC power unit. The engineering overhaul was carried out by Bombardier at its Ilford depot in London.
Angel Trains CEO Malcolm Brown said: "These units will provide a complementary option to the building of brand new trains.
"As operators look to reduce operational costs, increase the capacity on their franchise and offer passengers a more comfortable experience the Class 317 re-engineering project will satisfy these demands."
Bombardier rolling stock and services president Francis Paonessa said: "The Class 317 project encompasses a complex engineering challenge, integrating modern traction equipment into an existing unit to deliver improved train performance.
"We have also delivered a fresh, modern interior that demonstrates the potential of an older fleet to continue to meet the evolving needs of the customer."
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