New TransPennine Express Mk5A train revealed

by

By Keith Fender

TRANSPENNINE Express presented its new CAF-built Mk5A ‘Nova 3’ push-pull trains to stakeholders and media in mid-April at the Velim test centre in the Czech Republic, where dynamic testing of the new train with Class 68 locos began on April 11.

CAF is building 13 five-coach rakes of carriages as permanently coupled sets, connected by bar couplers, as found on modern EMUs.

Article continues below…
Advert

Enjoy more Railway reading in the monthly magazine.
Click here to subscribe & save.

An additional spare DTS (Driving Trailer Standard) vehicle has been ordered to provide a spare in case one of the sets hits an obstruction and is damaged.

TPE Mk5A set at Velim on April 12, with No. 68021 on the rear. All pictures: Keith Fender

This will allow the set to return to use within a short time, particularly if repairs are needed to the damaged DTS vehicle.

Each set – branded as a ‘Nova 3′ by TPE – has a Driving Trailer Standard vehicle equipped with a cab that, internally, is a close copy of the one found in the Class 68s.

Article continues below…
Advert

Kitchen area

There are three Standard Open vehicles per set, one of which is equipped with a storage area for four bikes or six tip-up seats if the bike space is not being used. The vehicle at the loco end of the set is a combined First Class and kitchen vehicle (TF) which will be used to provide at-seat service in First Class. The kitchen area is equipped with ovens and coffee machines plus a small food preparation area. It is also equipped with a water tank system that holds drinking water and a system to automatically fill and heat hot water urns.

The train only has one accessible toilet, located in the First Class coach, meaning that wheelchair users will be effectively given a free upgrade.

Article continues below…
Advert

Read more in the May issue of The RM – on sale now!


Advert
Subscribe to The Railway Magazine
Enjoy more of The Railway Magazine reading every month. Click here to subscribe.

Railway Reads

From the history of steam through to 21st century rail transport news, we have titles that cater for all rail enthusiasts. Covering diesels, modelling, steam and modern railways, check out our range of magazines and fantastic subscription offers.


Article Tags:

About the Author