UPDATE: Northern has just announced a major advancement in its new train fleet initiative by issuing a request for tender for up to 450 new trains. This critical development was disclosed by Northern’s Managing Director, Tricia Williams, during the Modern Railways Public Transport in the North Fourth Friday Club event in Manchester on December 3, 2023.
Williams confirmed that the company has successfully navigated the business case process with the Department for Transport, allowing them to move forward with this significant procurement phase. “We’ve issued a final tender or request for tender,” she stated, underscoring the urgency and importance of the project.
The new fleet is set to feature a blend of electric and multi-modal trains. “We will have to run in diesel mode initially, but with the intent of them being able to swap out for either electric or battery,” Williams explained. Additionally, she revealed plans for a small fleet of battery-powered models, signaling a move towards more environmentally friendly transport options.
This investment is expected to modernize Northern’s aging fleet and enhance service reliability for millions of passengers across the region. The anticipated new trains include the expected deployment of Class 382s, which are designed to meet the growing demand for efficient rail services.
This announcement comes at a crucial time as Northern aims to address the needs of its customers while also aligning with sustainability goals. The introduction of a more modern fleet will not only improve passenger experience but also contribute towards reducing carbon emissions.
As the tender process unfolds, industry experts and stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments to see how Northern collaborates with manufacturers to bring these new trains into operation. The next steps will include evaluating bids from various manufacturers and finalizing specifications to ensure these trains meet the highest standards.
The urgency of this development cannot be understated, as Northern strives to enhance its services and modernize its fleet amidst increasing pressure for greener transport solutions. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Northern takes significant strides toward a new era of rail travel.
