ATOC

Rail industry needs to work together to deliver successful Intercity Express Programme, says ATOC
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date 12 February 2009
source ATOC
type Press release

Today’s appointment by the Department for Transport of the preferred bidder to build the new trains for the Intercity Express Programme (IEP) is a significant step in delivering a modern main line train fit for use in the 21st Century.

Michael Roberts, Chief Executive of the Association of Train Operating Companies, said:

“The new fleet brings the promise of attractive rail travel for passengers, as well as much-needed new capacity with a lower carbon footprint for long distance operators.”

IEP will replace the iconic diesel powered InterCity 125 trains, as well as the reliable but ageing Mallard electric 225 fleet now operating on the East Coast Main Line.
It has been conceived to provide more seats on the busy long distance inter-city routes whilst delivering a train that is more flexible in terms of its deployment and environmentally friendly than those currently in service.

Michael Roberts added:

“The procurement of the IEP has been uniquely complex. ATOC and its members, with their successful track record of delivering over 5,000 new vehicles since privatisation, have worked closely with the DfT in developing the trains’ specification.

“Now that the preferred bidder has been announced, we will work closely with train operators, DfT and Network Rail to ensure the trains are successfully introduced as part of wider network improvements including electrification and ERTMS.”

Railhub Archive ::: 2009-02-12 ATO-001