Hitachi to deliver 45 ‘tri-mode’ rail carriages to UK operator

Hitachi Rail ‘tri-mode’ train (Photo: Hitachi)

Hitachi has won a contract in the UK to build a fleet of new intercity trains. The trains are for the Grand Central fleet, which operates on routes across the eastern portion of the UK.

The order covers delivery of 45 ‘tri-mode’ cars that will make up a total of nine trains. These can operate on electricity (from overhead lines), battery and diesel power on both electrified and non-electrified tracks.

With a value of about £300 million ($408.6 million), the contract further covers a 10-year maintenance contract.

Batteries for the new trains will be supplied as part of a £10 million ($13.6 million) contract with UK-based Turntide Technologies. The LFP lithium iron phosphate cells will be assembled at the company plant in Gateshead.

The batteries have a higher energy density than the li-ion units which featured in train trials in 2024, resulting in a smaller and lighter energy storage system.

The hybrid portion of the powertrain can help to achieve between 35 and 50% in fuel savings, reducing operating costs and also CO2 output on lines which are partially electrified.

The trains will be manufactured at the Hitachi facility in Newton Aycliffe. Deliveries are set to be completed in 2028.