Eversholt Rail unveils new Class 321 Swift Express Freight train

Credit: Eversholt Rail

Eversholt Rail has unveiled its newly converted Class 321 Swift Express Freight train, which will provide a cost-effective and low carbon solution for transporting parcels around the UK.

The conversion began in early 2021, with Eversholt Rail – supported by Ricardo and Wabtec UK – carrying out the works at Wabtec’s Doncaster facility. The programme to convert the classic Class 321 into an express freight train has now been successfully completed, and the train is service-ready.

The train has been designed to maximise capacity for parcels and light goods whilst ensuring that the interior is flexible to meet individual customers’ operational requirements. The scope of works includes the removal of passenger features and the installation of new flooring and industry standard fixings throughout.

Credit: Eversholt Rail

The volume of parcels delivered across the UK continues to increase. Rising van and lorry traffic is increasing congestion, carbon emissions and air quality issues, whilst also posing a significant problem for logistic companies and impacting deliveries into city centres. C321 Swift Express Freight will provide fast and reliable rail services, encouraging modal shift and contributing toward the target of net-zero emissions by 2050.

Paul Sutherland, Client Services Director at Eversholt Rail said: “We are proud to see the first Swift Express Freight train completed and ready for service. Collaborating with both Ricardo and Wabtec on this project has delivered a train that will demonstrate the potential for a cost-effective, low carbon solution to meet the growing demand for the home delivery of parcels around the UK and contribute towards the 2050 net-zero emissions targets. We look forward to seeing the Swift Express Freight train running in service in summer 2021.”

Jonathan Brown, Technical & Innovation Engagement Lead (Rail) at Ricardo said: “It’s been immensely enjoyable to be part of the Swift Express Freight team with Eversholt Rail and Wabtec. The project required significant collaboration between all stakeholders in order to successfully deliver a viable, low-carbon solution within the timescale. I can’t wait to see the vehicle in service and making a positive impact on sustainable logistics.”

Andy Derbyshire, Group Managing Director at Wabtec UK, said: “It is great to see the recent efforts of our collaboration with Eversholt Rail and Ricardo come to fruition. Our team in Doncaster has done a superb job in delivering this important milestone project, and we look forward to seeing the train produce genuine carbon and cost reductions.”