Merseyrail’s 52 Class 777 trains have been authorised for passenger use by the Office of Rail and Road.
The Stadler units are claimed to use 30% less energy than the existing Class 508 fleet. The decision follows four weeks of trials in May and June.
As part of testing, units fitted with batteries have covered up to 20 miles without recharging. The intention is for them to be able to reach places beyond Merseyrail’s existing third-rail network.
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “We know that our new publicly owned trains will revolutionise transport in our region. But after these battery trials, they’re going to help take it to another level entirely and ensure no community will be left behind.”
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Steve Alston - 23/07/2021 23:13
I look forward to riding on these when they finally enter traffic in the year 2742 with Buck Rogers and biddy biddy biddy biddy.
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Thomas - 26/07/2021 07:40
What about guards jobs on merseyrail, Steve Rotherham going back on his promises, massive profits going to Dutch shareholders every year and yet merseyrail still trying to compromise on passengers safety
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