UK: The first two of the 35 Flirt multiple-units which Stadler is supplying to Transport for Wales have been delivered to Cardiff Canton depot, ready for testing and commissioning ahead of entry into service next year.
‘The arrival of the first unit in Cardiff less than two weeks ago and the start of the testing phase is very exciting for everyone involved’, said Stadler project manager Sandro Muster on December 2. ‘Passengers will notice a massive difference in the ride quality, the comfort, the special features and fittings, and attention to detail.’
The order includes 11 diesel-only units of Class 231 and 24 trimode units of Class 756 which will be capable of running on diesel, battery or 25 kV 50 Hz overhead electric power. Stadler is also to supply 36 Citylink tram-train vehicles of Class 398 which will be fitted with 25 kV 50 Hz and battery power for use on services from Cardiff to Treherbert, Aberdare and Merthyr Tydfil.
Transport for Wales CEO James Price said ‘we’re investing £800m into new trains that will provide more capacity on our network, they will have more and improved seating, provide air-conditioning, power sockets and passenger information screens with up-to-the-minute travel information. The customer is at the heart of our planning at TfW and these trains will have more space for bikes, people with limited mobility and pushchairs.’
