Nexus, the UK’s Tyne and Wear Metro operator, is investing £362 million in a new fleet of 46 Stadler trains, set to enter service in autumn 2022. To ensure the smooth operation of these new trains, a team of eight experienced drivers travelled from northeast England to the Czech Republic to test the new trains on a specialist test track. This was the first opportunity for the drivers to experience the “space-age” driving cab and computerised controls of the trains, which have been built and tested in Switzerland before being sent to the Czech Republic for further testing.

The drivers were involved in the design of the new trains and have been using virtual reality to test the new fleet during the pandemic. They were impressed by the technology and the cab layout of the new trains, describing the move from analogue to digital technology as a “huge jump”. The new trains are expected to improve the drivers’ working environment, with their smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride.

The new trains have been designed to cope with the toughest weather conditions and cut energy consumption, with features such as charging points, air conditioning, and sliding steps at every train door for easier accessibility. The digital technology will be transformative, with the computerised control systems offering a far better driving experience. Michael Richardson, Head of Fleet at Nexus, said that all 177 drivers would undergo training on the new fleet, including time in a special simulator ahead of driving one of the new trains on the network for real.

The investment in the new fleet is part of Nexus’ modernisation programme, which aims to improve the reliability and performance of the Metro system, which carries over 36 million passengers each year. The new trains will be gradually introduced to the Metro infrastructure, which includes two lines serving 60 stations, over the next few years, replacing the existing fleet of 40-year-old trains.

The Stadler trains are the first major investment in the Metro system since it was built in the 1970s, and they are expected to provide a more modern and comfortable experience for passengers. The investment in the new fleet is also expected to boost the local economy, with the creation of new jobs in the supply chain and the development of the supply chain for the maintenance and repair of the new trains. Overall, the new trains are expected to bring significant benefits to both the passengers and the local community.

Article by Prague Forum