The first Class 700 Desiro City for Thameslink has arrived in the UK. Built in Krefeld (Germany), 12-car 700106 was delivered to Three Bridges depot in the early hours of today (July 31).

It will enter traffic in spring 2016 with Govia Thameslink Railway.

Testing will be carried out before it enters traffic on Bedford-Brighton trains.

Rail Minister Claire Perry said: “The arrival of this first train is a huge step forward for the Government-sponsored Thameslink programme, which is creating thousands of jobs across the country and is a vital part of our long-term economic plan.”
The trains feature intelligent air-conditioning, wide doors and open through-carriages that contribute to a more accessible and comfortable passenger experience.