UK: The first two of 133 Aventra electric multiple-units which Bombardier Transportation’s Derby factory is supplying for Greater Anglia’s commuter routes entered passenger service on November 26.
A pair of Class 720 EMUs formed the 16.10 service from Southend Victoria to London Liverpool Street, returning as the 17.25 from London.
The roll-out of the Class 720s on routes from London to Essex and Ipswich will continue next year, and is expected to begin on the West Anglia route in the second half of 2021.
‘We’re confident these new trains will improve our customers’ journeys as they are longer with more seats and all the mod-cons modern passengers expect’, said Ian McConnell, Greater Anglia Franchise & Programmes Director.
The 25 kV 50 Hz EMUs were ordered in September 2016 through leasing company Angel Trains. The order originally included 89 five-car and 22 10-car units, but was later revised with same number of cars to be delivered but as 133 five-car units.
Passenger facilities include USB and plug points, free wi-fi, air-conditioning, an accessible toilet, information screens and dedicated cycle spaces.
Greater Anglia said the trainsets are the first in the UK to have underfloor heating, which works with the overhead heating and ventilation system to improve passenger comfort and increase foot space for passengers in window seats.
‘It’s really great news that Greater Anglia’s passengers can now start travelling on these cutting-edge, British designed and built Aventra trains’, said Matt Byrne, Bombardier Transportation President UK & Ireland. ‘We have worked really closely with Greater Anglia to ensure that the production, testing and delivery of the new trains has continued despite the continuing impact of Covid-19.’
