TransPennine Express

[knutstransport]

RE: TransPennine Express

(23/07/2017 11:43)St Helens Rider Wrote:  The problem with all these electrification programmes is that will create a massive rolling stock problem. Will all these bi-mode units be built over the next few years and what of the electric stock already ordered. This is the mess that is British Transport Policy.

Initially TPE are to get 12 CAF EMUs (for services to Scotland via Preston only), loco-hauled sets (hauled by 68s) and Hitachi bi-modes. However, the plan was for the 68s to be switched for electric locos and the bi-modes to be moved to Middlesbrough and Scarborough services once Manchester-York was wired. I imagine this now means the bi-modes will remain on Newcastle services (2tph with alternate ones extended to Edinburgh) and the 68s won't be switched for electric locos. Also the potential order of additional EMUs mentioned in the TPE franchise agreement now won't happen - unless they just acquire a few extra for the Scottish services via Preston.