Home > Hitachi-Rail Now > Hot Topics > 2004 > Hitachi wins Channel Tunnel Rail Link Contract
28 October 2004
Hitachi announces that it has been selected as preferred supplier to deliver around 30 high-speed "A-trains" to operate domestic services on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link (CTRL) and local lines in Kent as part of the new Integrated Kent Franchise. Each train will consist of 6 coaches and will have the ability to rapidly couple to operate as 12 coach trains. Hitachi will also maintain the new trains, initially for the duration of the new Integrated Kent Franchise.
Hitachi's high-speed "A-train" combines technical innovation with safety, comfort and reliability. With the ability to travel on local lines in Kent combined with the ability to travel at 140 mph on the new CTRL line, Hitachi's High-Speed "A-Train" will dramatically cut journey times into London. The Trains will be configured as a high speed commuter service with comfortable seating, CCTV, Passenger Information Systems and fully compliant with disability regulations.
The "A-train" provides many advantages including a much quieter interior, improved rigidity and a safer crashworthy structure. In addition, the modular concept approach has enabled easier refurbishment and better residual value. It is also superior to conventional trains in terms of recyclability due to the use of aluminium and its module-to-mounting rail structure which can be easily dismantled.
By greatly reducing the number of components in the car body structure and eliminating most of the adjustment processes in the interior panel fitting, the "A-train" is effective in reducing life-cycle cost and environmental damage.
Alistair Dormer, business development director at Hitachi Europe Ltd, said:
'Hitachi is delighted to be selected to supply and maintain new CTRL DS trains for the new Integrated Kent Franchise. This is a firm endorsement of our international reputation for delivering world class rail solutions and of our commitment to the UK Rail market over the last 5 years. We believe we have a highly relevant proposition for the UK and are committed to delivering safe, reliable and cost-effective solutions to the whole of the European rail market.'
Hitachi established its London office some four years ago. Internationally, the company has been operating in rail services for over 75 years and lists the design of the "Shinkansen" or Bullet Train among its achievements.
Also, we would like to remind you that we would be exhibiting at Railtex 04, which will be held in National Exhibition Centre at Birmingham, UK, between November 2 and 4. We will be exhibiting at Hall 2, Stand 630. The exhibits include the "A-train" mockup and the introduction of our technologies from rolling stock system to signalling and train control systems. Our engineers and sales staff are looking forward to your visit!
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