,

Old and new sleeper trains meet on testing

by

On-going testing of the new Mk5 carriages for the Caledonian Sleeper has brought the old and new trains side by side, well away from the depot.

Six of the new carriages were out for winter testing on March 9 between Polmadie depot, Glasgow and Fort William, and on the return working passed the carriages they will replace at Tulloch. The old stock was nearing the end of its journey from London Euston.

A trial Caledonian Sleeper train from Polmadie to Fort William on the evening of March 8 featured Class 73 No. 73970 and six Mk5 coaches. IAN LOTHIAN

Caledonian Sleeper says the testing of the new stock, which has cost £100million, is entering the final phase, with preparations being made for the new fleet to begin operating by the end of May 2019.

Article continues below…
Advert

Monthly Subscription: Enjoy more Railway Magazine reading each month with free delivery to you door, and access to over 100 years in the archive, all for just £5.35 per month.
Click here to subscribe & save

A grant from the Scottish Government has provided £60m of the cost of the 75 new carriages. The new trains will feature three different types of cabin (some en suite), plus accessible rooms for guests with reduced mobility, as well as seating. Other features include a hotel-style key card entry system, device charging panels and wi-fi throughout.

The new carriages will initially be introduced on the ‘Lowlander’ route between Glasgow or Edinburgh and London before being rolled out within a matter of months onto the ‘Highlander’ route, which serves Fort William, Aberdeen and Inverness.


Article continues below…
Advert


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.


About the Author