The first of ten new Derby-built Class 345 Aventra Elizabeth line trains have begun passenger service in London, following an extensive period of testing on the mainline railway by
Alstom, Transport for London and the operator
GTS.
The new trains, delivered with Government funding, will support increased passenger demand, including at High Speed Two's (HS2’s) Old Oak Common railway station when it opens.
The electric multiple units (EMUs) are being built at Alstom’s historic Derby Litchurch Lane Works, with the train manufacturer's supply chain supporting almost 40 companies across the UK – totalling more than 1,000 employees.
Each nine-carriage Elizabeth line train contains five miles of welding, 50 miles of cabling, and more than 47,700 screws and 31,700 bolts.
Nimesh Tailor, project director Elizabeth line + at Alstom, said: "Seeing the first of the additional ten Elizabeth line units enter passenger service is a special moment for everyone involved at our Derby site – as well as all those across the country involved in their creation.”
He added: "I am incredibly proud of what the team in Derby has achieved and know their commitment to deliver the remaining nine trains will continue with the same rigour, passion and dedication. This milestone once again demonstrates Derby's capability to deliver complex and high-quality rolling stock projects that benefit passengers and local economies across the UK and around the world."
A Class 345 Aventra (No. 345071) train was accepted by the customer on 25 August and began passenger service on Friday 28 August.