London Northwestern Railway to receive Class 230 units from Vivarail

London Northwestern Railway’s contract for the supply of Class 230 units from Vivarail has officially been signed and their new livery between Bedford and Bletchley revealed.

The units will start running on the line in December 2018, following production at Vivarail’s Long Marston depot in Warwickshire.

The first of the new vehicles will begin testing over the next few weeks with others following shortly.

The signing of the contract is a significant stage of the project, demonstrating commitment from both West Midlands Trains and Vivarail.

Jan Chaudry-van-de-Velde, Managing Director of West Midlands Trains, said: “I remember these trains from when they were on London Underground, but looking around the units there’s so much new equipment on board that they look and feel like brand new trains. Vivarail has done a great job and these trains are an ideal match for this important local service.

“Our new London Northwestern Railway livery is appearing more and more prominently across the network and we are proud to be able to share this bespoke version of design for the Marston Vale route.”

Adrian Shooter, CEO of Vivarail, said: “Both Vivarail and West Midlands Trains have worked tirelessly to bring this to fruition and I am delighted to show what we have achieved. Everyone is pleased with the look and build quality and I’m very proud of the work my team has done. I am particularly impressed with the London Northwestern Railway livery and their interior designs – they certainly showcase the Class 230 and I think they will be well received by Marston Vale’s passengers.”

Vivarail will be supplying three two-car trains to operate between Bedford and Bletchley. The trains will include universal access toilets, USB sockets and modern ‘airline’ seating. The trains will be supplied as diesel units, with the capability to convert to battery units.

Vivarail has designed the Class 230s to be quiet, green and clean, using automotive standards to reduce emissions and noise. The train’s engines will automatically cut-out in stations to ensure a comfortable passenger environment and further lower emissions. The lightweight aluminium bodyshell also means the train uses less fuel and the superior acceleration will ensure swift and comfortable journeys.