First look at powerful new generation train earmarked for Inverness-London route
Built by Hitachi, the new train draws on the same technology behind Japan’s famous bullet trains – even if it is unlikely to reach similar speeds on its Inverness to London run.
“Japan’s bullet trains are recognised as the most reliable trains in the world with no recorded safety issues,” Hitachi Rail’s head of communication Adam Love said. “What we have done is bring that technology to the UK.”
Hitachi’s new Class 800 Intercity Express trains will begin operating on the East Coast Mainline later this year, although none are expected on the Highland line until 2019.
However, one paid a visit to Inverness train depot while carrying out tests on the route this week, allowing an early look at its new passenger facilities and dual diesel and electric power system.
“This is a UK passenger train first and offers far greater flexibility,” Mr Love said.
“The other big thing about these trains is the environmental impact. These are not like the old diesels pumping out fumes. With these you will have emission reductions of up to 90 per cent.”
The Class 800 also promises faster acceleration, shortening journey times, translating into more power to overcome the steep gradients on the Highland route or potential obstacles on the line such as leaves or snow.
“That’s part of the testing we are doing at the moment,” Tim Olton, Hitachi Rail’s Scottish mobilisation manager, explained.
“But these trains can go up to 140mph and the line speed is only 125mph, so there is more than enough power there.”
While some of the technical changes will largely be invisible to train users, passengers will immediately notice a difference with its larger carriages, offering up to 159 more seats per train, more legroom and more space for luggage and bikes, and faster wi-fi.
In addition to introducing the trains themselves, Hitachi Rail is making a £5 million investment in Inverness rail depot.
Depot manager Derek Glasgow is hopeful this will lead to more jobs in Inverness, but pointed out the arrival of the Class 800 was just one of the exciting new developments Highland rail workers and travellers could expect over the coming year.
The first of ScotRail’s new HSTs are expected to begin operating between Inverness and the central belt in September or October this year, with the full fleet operational for the May 2019 timetable change.
Discussions are also underway with Caledonian Sleeper about introducing its new trains on the Inverness service, which is likely to happen either late this year or in early 2019.
“Over the next 18 months there will be a complete change in the suite of trains here in Inverness,” Mr Glasgow added.
Andy Rogers, Intercity Express programme director at Hitachi Rail, said: “Having the train at the depot, with its new £5 million investment, is an important milestone for the project and it means the start of service is a step closer for people in Scotland.”
