Northern takes step closer to bringing new electric trains on York to Leeds route
Northern is set to submit its business case to government in the New Year to bring 450 new trains into its fleet, with electric models to run between Leeds, York and Huddersfield.
This will be the rail firm’s “largest ever investment” in its fleet to replace trains built in the 1980s and 90s.
This will both improve the passenger experience and should reduce delays as it will make things less complicated from an operational and maintenance perspective.
Northern has issued an invitation to train manufacturers to submit applications for tender, and is set to provide its final business case to the Department for Transport and the Treasury in the new year.
The trains will feature a mix of electric, multi-modal and battery-powered models, for greater efficiency and sustainability.
Rollout is set to begin on the route between Huddersfield, Leeds and York by the government-owned operator.
James Howard, director of Northern’s new rolling stock programmes, said: “We are looking to make the largest ever investment in our fleet, with the potential to purchase up to 450 new trains.
“The new trains will be introduced on a phased basis, replacing the oldest trains in our fleet, most of which have been in service since the 1980s and 90s.
“We are aiming to replace approximately two thirds of the existing fleet of trains in the next 10 years.
“There will be a mix of electric, hybrid and battery-powered models, ensuring greater efficiency and sustainability.
"We are working closely with the manufacturers to deliver these modern trains as soon as possible, improving train travel for customers across the North of England."
Mr Howard’s comments have come after Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy described all trains in the north of England are “clapped out” and need replacing.
“We need to replace them all,” he added.
“That’s a really serious investment choice and actually GBR and the Government will have to face it head on.”