Hitachi has begun testing TransPennine Express’ new Nova 1 fleet, with a successful run between Doncaster and Darlington. The first train to begin testing is a five car.
In the coming months testing will span the entire route, calling at major stations across The North and Scotland.
“Our modern intercity trains will be calling at all stations along the route ahead of carrying passengers next year. Passengers will instantly recognise our high-tech trains, sporting an aerodynamic design first pioneered in Japan,” Berry Sas, Projects Director for Hitachi Rail Europe said.
Hitachi is using its Japanese-bullet train technology to make the new Nova 1 fleet light and aerodynamic. The 19 trains will all be bi-modes, meaning they can switch seamlessly mid-journey between electric and diesel power. The trains will be able to run in either five or ten carriage formation, capable of speeds of up to 140mph in electric mode and 125 mph using diesel engines.
By using modern MTU engines from Rolls-Royce, the trains will cut harmful emissions under diesel power by up to 90%.
The new fleet of Hitachi intercity trains (Class 802) were ordered by First Group for TransPennine Express in 2016. The fleet is being built by Hitachi and financed by Angel Trains.
The trains are fitted with the latest in-cab digital signalling technology ahead of the route becoming the first digitally controlled intercity line.
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