GWR’s Intercity Express trains begin testing

Class 802 at Stoke Gifford (Bristol) depot

From 2018 this fleet of Class 802 Intercity Express Trains, which is being financed by Eversholt Rail, will connect London Paddington to Exeter, Plymouth, Penzance and many more communities.

“This is an exciting milestone for our team as we ensure the trains are delivered on time and in top condition,” said Berry Sas, Projects Director at Hitachi Rail Europe. “Passengers and enthusiasts will be able to catch glimpses of the new trains as they begin regular test runs in the region.”

Part of GWR’s new Intercity fleet, the 36 Class 802s are fitted with bi-mode technology, allowing trains to use both diesel and electric power, ensuring passengers experience new trains as soon as possible. They arrived in the UK from Hitachi’s depot in Japan back in June. Passengers will also benefit from more seats, better on-board facilities and shorter journey times with the Intercity Express trains.

“We know how important the railway is to the economies and communities of the South West, and the start of testing today marks another milestone in delivering the improvements we know our passengers wish to see,” added Mark Hopwood, Managing Director of GWR. “These trains will help us deliver faster, more frequent services into the South West, each providing up to a fifth more seats per train.”

Two more Intercity Express trains are due to arrive in the South West within the coming weeks as part of a comprehensive test programme.