Network Rail & Siemens: Future of Southern Rail – Capacity Boost

Network Rail invests £860 million in 90 new Siemens Mobility trains for the Southern network, boosting capacity and reliability. Learn the secrets of this rail upgrade!

Network Rail & Siemens: Future of Southern Rail – Capacity Boost
January 29, 2017 7:59 am
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Introduction

In December 2023, Network Rail awarded a contract to Siemens Mobility to design, manufacture, and commission 90 new trains for the Southern network. These trains will operate on the Southern, Gatwick Express, and Thameslink routes, enhancing passenger capacity and service reliability.

Contract Details

The contract, valued at £860 million, includes the supply of 90 five-carriage trains. The new trains are scheduled to enter passenger service from the early 2030s. Siemens Mobility will also provide technical support and supply spare parts for the trains over a period of up to 32 years.

Train Specifications and Features

The new trains will be equipped with features to improve passenger experience, including improved accessibility, real-time passenger information systems, and enhanced onboard Wi-Fi. They will also incorporate advanced safety features and meet the latest accessibility standards. The trains will be maintained at existing depots across the Southern network.

Operational Impact and Network Enhancements

The introduction of the new trains will increase capacity on the Southern network, which will help to relieve congestion during peak hours. The design of the trains will be optimized to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. This investment is part of a broader strategy to improve rail services across the region and complements ongoing projects like the East Coast Main Line upgrade.

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Last July 2018, we published an article about Škoda and Siemens delivering high-speed railcars to Czech Railways. Click here to read – Škoda-Siemens: Czech Railcar Innovation

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Conclusion

The contract between Network Rail and Siemens Mobility represents a significant investment in the Southern rail network, with the aim of modernizing the fleet and improving the passenger experience. The new trains are expected to enter service in the early 2030s and will operate across the Southern, Gatwick Express, and Thameslink routes.

Company Summary

Network Rail: Network Rail is the owner and infrastructure manager of most of the railway network in Great Britain.

Siemens Mobility: Siemens Mobility is a separately managed company of Siemens AG. It provides mobility solutions for rail transport.

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