Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, recently welcomed the arrival of the first brand-new Class 777 train at the newly redeveloped Stadler rail depot in Kirkdale, where it will now undergo testing.

The new train is the first of 52 to be delivered from Stadler’s factory in Switzerland to its new home over the course of the next year.

It has been designed specifically for the Merseyrail network, so it will undergo thorough testing to make sure that it is ready for passenger service.

Once testing is complete, the Class 777 trains will be gradually introduced across the Merseyrail network’s Northern and Wirral lines, replacing the current fleet, which has been running for almost 40 years.

The new trains will be publicly owned by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA), and they have been designed around the needs of local people.

Key features include free Wi-Fi, more cycle storage and wider seats.

They will also feature new sliding-step technology, which will allow unassisted access for wheelchair users and those with bikes or buggies — a first for the UK.

The LCRCA has also approved funding to fit the trains with batteries that could allow them to travel beyond the current network to new destinations, including Widnes, Skelmersdale and Warrington.

Merseyrail’s managing director, Andy Heath, said: “The arrival of the first of these innovative new trains is a significant moment for the Liverpool City Region.

“They will transform the rail offering in the region, and we look forward to being able to welcome passengers aboard later this year.”

Neil Heaton, head of fleet maintenance at Stadler Rail Service UK, said: “We are very pleased to see the arrival of this first train in Liverpool (www.stadlerrail.com).

"It’s a highly significant moment for Stadler in the UK, and particularly for our team in Liverpool, who will support the fleet throughout its life.”