Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) announced the arrival of the new Glasgow Subway’s trains, delivered by Stadler. Two more new trains are due to be delivered by the end of the summer for the first phase of testing.
Before they will enter services, the first of the new trains will begin a lengthy, offline testing period while work continues to install the new communications and controls systems in the stations and tunnels which is necessary for the trains to run in passenger service.
“This is a fantastic day for the Subway and for everyone involved in the delivery of the Subway modernisation programme. We are delighted to see the first new train in Glasgow. It’s a big day for the project team who have worked tirelessly to achieve this milestone for the organization,” SPT Chair, and Glasgow City Councillor, Martin Bartos, said.
The new trains and communication and control systems are all part of the GBP 288 million (EUR 335 million) 
Subway modernisation programme which also includes a major refurbishment of the system’s 15 stations, a complete overhaul of the Victorian tunnel system and replacement of the Subway’s main infrastructure including tracks and the ramps and turnouts section where the trains enter and exit the system.
In 2016, SPT awarded consortium of Stadler Bussnang and Ansaldo STS a GBP 200 million (EUR 232.57 million) contract for the supply of 17 new trains and control systems, including new signalling, telecoms, a control-centre, as well as depot modificationsand new screen doors on platforms.
With a maximum speed of 58km/h, the new trains have the same length and size as existing rolling stock, but made up of four-car sets, as opposed to the current three-car sets. They feature open gangways to maximise the space available, as well as dedicated areas for wheelchairs, making the trains more accessible for all passengers.
The new trains are equipped for fully-automatic, unattended train operations (UTO), and it is the first time that Stadler is manufacturing trains for a driverless system.
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