- First image released of the proposed Bombardier / Hitachi design
BERLIN, June 05, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --
Note to editors: To view the photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link:
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Two UK-based rail giants are submitting today a ‘Great British’ train proposal to High Speed Two (HS2) that would be the most advanced, customer-oriented train ever to run in the UK.
The contract, worth £2.75billion, is to design, build and maintain at least 54 trains for Phase One of HS2.
Hitachi has pioneered Japan’s world-renowned Shinkansen ‘bullet trains’ while Bombardier offers a depth of international experience from its high speed trains operating in Europe and on the world’s largest network in China.
In 2015, the two companies together delivered the Frecciarossa (Red Arrow) ETR1000 for Trenitalia, which is the fastest yet quietest in-service high speed train in Europe. Operating at speeds up to 225 mph, it has transformed passenger experience and connectivity across Italy.
Its success has been recognised by Trenitalia placing a further order in June 2019 for 14 new trains, increasing Frecciarossa (Red Arrow) high speed services across Italy.
Hitachi Rail’s Managing Director Karen Boswell OBE said:
“Hitachi-Bombardier’s Great British train for HS2 would be a shining example of British ingenuity. Our bid, if successful, would bring significant benefits for economies and communities, while truly transforming connectivity and passengers’ experience.”
Bombardier’s President, UK, Phil Hufton said:
“HS2 is this generation's chance to transform our country. Our Great British train will connect our great cities and improve the journeys of every passenger. HS2’s vision is to be a catalyst for growth across Britain – we are ready to make that happen.”
Alongside London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds, HS2 services will also serve destinations beyond the core HS2 network, including York, Newcastle, Liverpool, the North West, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
For more information, please contact:
Adam Love, Head of External Comms & Public Affairs, Hitachi Rail
m: +44 7860 273 317
Email: adam.love@hitachirail.com
Will Tanner, Head of Public Affairs and PR, Bombardier Transportation
m: +44 7768 031 663
Email: will.tanner@rail.bombardier.com
An image of the proposed train is available with this release. If not attached, please contact a representative of Hitachi or Bombardier via the details above
Notes to editors:
- Hitachi and Bombardier have formed a joint venture to design, build and maintain at least 54 trains for HS2 Phase 1. The bid for the £2.75bn contract is to be submitted on 5th June 2019.
- The Joint Venture is an agreement to share HS2 bidding information between Hitachi Rail and Bombardier Transportation in order to jointly bid to build a new fleet for HS2. Hitachi Rail and Bombardier Transportation remain competitors in all other markets and competitions.
- The new trains will run on the new HS2 network, and continue seamlessly on to the classic rail network. Post-award, the winning bidder will collaborate closely with HS2, the existing network, and with the West Coast Partner to finalise the train design.
- Bombardier and Hitachi’s combined UK operations currently employ around 7,000 people that includes train factories in Derby, Newton Aycliffe and Crewe, extensive regional supply chains, together with a network of maintenance facilities across England, Scotland and Wales.
About Hitachi Rail
Hitachi Rail is a global transport specialist with over 100 years of experience building pioneering trains, offering quality maintenance and developing innovative new technology. As a leader in rail we’re improving transport for passengers, connecting communities and helping to boost the UK’s economy.
Having delivered the hugely popular Javelin HS1 fleet in advance of the 2012 London Games, Hitachi Rail is currently delivering major orders for new trains, with 281 due to be in service by 2021. The first wave of new trains are made at our purpose-built factory in County Durham and first entered passenger service in 2017 as part of the UK Government’s £5.7bn Intercity Express Programme.
With a proud reputation for innovation, Hitachi Rail is at the forefront of using new digital technology to enhance passenger experience and enrich Britain’s railway’s heritage. Hitachi Rail is growing rapidly, employing over 2000 people at 15 locations across the UK. The global business is headquartered and incorporated in London.
About Bombardier Transportation
Bombardier Transportation is a global mobility solution provider leading the way with the rail industry’s broadest portfolio. It covers the full spectrum of solutions, ranging from trains to sub-systems and signalling to complete turnkey transport systems, e-mobility technology and data-driven maintenance services.
Combining technology and performance with empathy, Bombardier is a solution provider to the UK rail industry, based at the iconic Litchurch Lane facility in Derby, the heart of the largest cluster of rail-connected businesses anywhere in the world. In the UK Bombardier designs, develops, manufactures, tests and service trains for UK and export markets and employs around 4,000 staff.