Stadler signed the deal with the transport authorities Merseytravel, which is replacing its fleet in the Liverpool City Region. According to a statement from the St.GallenBodenseeArea train manufacturer, the GPB 700 million (CHF 875 million) contract includes building 52 metro trains, maintenance of the units over their 35 year life cycle and an option to build a further 60 vehicles.
“This contract with Merseytravel marks a very important milestone for Stadler in the UK. It will bring safer, more comfortable trains that can carry more people and will help provide the Liverpool City Region with the metro service it deserves,” said Stadler vice president Peter Jenelten.
The new trains will all be in service by 2021, with the first unit arriving for testing by mid-2019. At just under 65 metres long, the metro trains will have space for 486 people and a maximum speed of 120 kilometres a hour. Accessibility, safety and resistance to damage and graffiti are among their key features.
“The fleet of new trains will provide the foundations of our City Region’s long term rail strategy and we anticipate our relationship with Stadler developing into a strong, enduring partnership,” said the chief executive of Merseytravel, Frank Rogers.
