TransPennine Express

[knutstransport]

RE: TransPennine Express
Chiltern Railways have signed a lease for the mk5s. It follows them putting out an ITT for mk3 replacement and Beacon Rail putting forward the mk5s as an option.

I think we were told initially 185s being retained and used instead of the loco hauled sets was a temporary measure due to staffing issues and more crews signing 185s. Not the first time modern stock has transferred from the TPE franchise to Chiltern, and left TPE with an inferior option.

Although, a good option for Chiltern, given the almost new trains already exist and they won't need to wait for them to be built and tested.