The project also includes the maintenance services for units for eight years. According to CAF, the value of the total contract exceeds €500m. This amount includes both the cost of purchase for the trains by Porterbrook, which will subsequently lease to LNER, with maintenance delivered by CAF.
According to LNER, the main benefits of the tri-mode trains range from a reduction in emissions, particulates, noise and vibration pollution, lower maintenance and operating costs and upgradeable technology, with an expected increase in range and performance as technology develops further.
Battery power will also reduce the need to use diesel traction in areas where overhead powerlines are not available.
This new fleet of trains will keep LNER on track to reduce its emissions by 67% by 2035 and be net zero by 2045. LNER has already reduced carbon emissions by 50% compared with 2018/19. Per mile, LNER trains produce 15 times less carbon emissions than a domestic flight.
Complementing LNER’s modern Azuma fleet of 65 trains, the new ten-coach trains will help the firm achieve its vision of becoming the “most loved, progressive and trusted train operator in the UK,” delivering an exceptional service for the customers and communities served along its 956-mile network.
David Horne, managing director at LNER, said: “Successfully delivering this new fleet is an integral part of LNER’s Business Plan. Our focus is ensuring we create a fleet that truly matches the needs of all our customers, with clear targets on setting new standards for comfort, accessibility, and exceptional customer service.”
According to CAF, each unit will consist of 10 cars, based on CAF’s Civity UK platform – a train designed for intercity services which is fitted out with state-of-the-art safety technology. It also meets the most stringent requirements in terms of interior design and customer comfort. The fleet will be assembled at the CAF state of art manufacturing facility in Newport, Wales.
Richard Garner, CAF UK director, said, “The new CAF fleet of more sustainable and environmentally friendly tri-mode trains will reduce carbon emissions, noise and vibration pollution and optimize energy consumption while increasing service operation efficiency and performance on the East Coast Main Line.”
Mary Grant, Porterbrook CEO, added, “Porterbrook is delighted to fund and take ownership of this state-of-the-art new tri-mode fleet for LNER, supporting its focus on creating a world-class service that matches the needs of customers with lower emission trains.”