Tyne & Wear Metro: New Rolling Stock Procurement

This article explores the procurement process for a new rolling stock fleet for the Tyne and Wear Metro (TWM) system in the United Kingdom. The selection of a new train manufacturer is a critical undertaking, involving significant financial investment and long-term operational implications for the system’s capacity, reliability, and passenger experience. The process, as detailed below, highlights the rigorous evaluation undertaken by Nexus, the operator of the TWM, to ensure the selection of a supplier capable of delivering a high-quality, modern fleet that meets the demands of a growing ridership and enhanced operational efficiency. The procurement involves not only the design and manufacture of the trains themselves but also their long-term maintenance, underscoring the holistic nature of the project and the strategic importance of selecting a partner with a demonstrably strong track record.

The Tyne and Wear Metro Rolling Stock Replacement Program

Nexus, the transport authority responsible for the Tyne and Wear Metro, initiated a tender process to replace its aging rolling stock. This undertaking involved a significant capital investment of £337 million (GBP) of government funding. The primary objective was to procure 42 new trains that offer a substantial improvement in passenger comfort, accessibility, and operational efficiency compared to the existing fleet. Key features of the new trains included improved seating layouts, wider doors for quicker passenger boarding and alighting, expanded luggage storage areas, enhanced digital connectivity for improved passenger information systems, and modern air conditioning systems.

Shortlisting and Bid Evaluation

Initially, five bidders were shortlisted to participate in the competitive tender process. These included major international rolling stock manufacturers such as CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles), Hitachi Rail, Stadler, Bombardier Transportation UK, and a joint venture between Downer EDI Rail (Australia) and CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles (China). A rigorous evaluation process examined various aspects of each bid, including technical specifications, financial viability, maintenance plans, and the bidders’ overall experience and capabilities. This process resulted in the elimination of Bombardier Transportation UK and the Downer EDI Rail/CRRC Changchun joint venture.

Final Bid Submission and Selection

The three remaining bidders—CAF, Hitachi Rail, and Stadler—were invited to submit their final bids. This phase of the procurement involved refining initial proposals based on Nexus’ feedback during the evaluation stage. The final bids were comprehensively evaluated by Nexus, taking into account factors such as cost, technical performance, risk mitigation strategies, and long-term maintenance cost projections. Nexus’ managing director, Tobyn Hughes, emphasized the importance of selecting a bidder with a proven track record in designing, building, and maintaining high-quality railway rolling stock globally.

Maintenance and Depot Infrastructure

The successful bidder was not only responsible for designing and manufacturing the new trains but also for the 35-year maintenance of the fleet. This long-term commitment necessitates a robust maintenance plan, specialized depot infrastructure, and skilled personnel. The contract included the establishment of a new maintenance depot in Gosforth, Newcastle, to support the long-term operational needs of the new train fleet. The integration of maintenance capabilities within the overall procurement strategy represents a significant aspect of the project and a key factor in ensuring the long-term operational success and cost-effectiveness of the new fleet.

Conclusion

The Tyne and Wear Metro’s rolling stock replacement program exemplifies a strategic investment in improving public transportation infrastructure. The selection process, involving multiple phases of rigorous evaluation, highlights the careful consideration given to long-term operational needs, cost-effectiveness, and passenger experience. The decision to award the contract to a single entity responsible for both the manufacture and 35-year maintenance of the fleet reflects a commitment to integrated system management. The involvement of globally recognized rolling stock manufacturers underscores the importance of the project within the broader context of the UK rail industry. The selection of a new fleet will not only modernize the TWM but also provide considerable improvements to passenger comfort, accessibility and the overall operational efficiency of the Tyne and Wear Metro. The expected delivery of the new trains, starting from the end of 2021 and phasing out the old fleet by 2024, marks a significant step towards enhancing the region’s public transport system and improving the overall travel experience for commuters. The successful completion of this project provides a model for future rolling stock replacement projects in other urban rail networks, highlighting the benefits of a holistic procurement strategy that considers all aspects from initial design and manufacturing to long-term maintenance and operational reliability.