Stadler has successfully delivered the first of 46 new Tyne and Wear Metro trains to Nexus’ Gosforth Metro Depot in the North of England.
The Stadler Class 555 train will now undergo a period of testing and driver training before entering customer service in the autumn.
Stadler manufactured the new train at its factory in Switzerland and towed it across mainland Europe and into the UK via the Channel Tunnel.
“It was a proud moment for us to welcome the first new Stadler train to North East England today. The £362m programme is now entering a significant phase. To see that train arriving at our Gosforth depot was a moment of history for the Tyne and Wear Metro.
“Everyone is excited to get the testing and driver training process underway, so that we can put the new train into service on the network. The Stadler trains have all the latest modern technology. They’re a world away from our current fleet, and they promise to be transformative for customers and for our workforce.”
The new trains will replace Metro’s current fleet of 43-year-old rolling stock. They will be equipped with modern features such as charging points and air conditioning, as well as accessibility upgrades.
For example, an automatic sliding step at every door will enable seamless boarding for passengers in wheelchairs and for those with with luggage, pushchairs or bicycles.
“I’m delighted to see the first train of our new modern Metro fleet arrive in the region – this is a monumental achievement and great news for public transport in the North East.
“In line with our region’s Transport Plan, the new trains will encourage even more people to make use of our Metro network for all types of journeys, including travel to work and education or for leisure purposes.”
