Hitachi signed contract for new high-speed "A-train" for the Channel Tunnel Rail Link

1 June 2005

Hitachi signed a contract with Strategic Rail Authority and HSBC Rail Limited on 1st June 2005. The contract includes 28 high-speed “A-trains” for UK domestic operation on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link (CTRL) and local lines in Kent as a part of the new Integrated Kent Franchise. The trains are expected to come into service in 2009.
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 trains will also be compliant with European TSI (Technical Specification for Interoperability).