Expert Warns HS2 Train Size Changes Could Reduce Northern Capacity and Speed
Chris Gibb, a senior rail industry official and non-executive director of DfT Operator, has warned that plans to alter the size of HS2 trains may inadvertently reduce capacity and speed for services north of Birmingham. The original order for 54 eight-carriage trains, manufactured by an Alstom-Hitachi joint venture, is under review as HS2 Ltd seeks cost reductions following the cancellation of the northern leg. Gibb argues that limiting HS2 trains to eight carriages on conventional tracks will result in overcrowding, as they cannot match the length or tilting capabilities of existing Pendolino trains. He suggests that changing the contract to order fewer, longer trains would increase costs and cause delays without solving the compatibility issue. Instead, Gibb recommends retaining the original train order while planning to replace the current Pendolino fleet with modern, longer versions by 2040. This approach, he claims, would boost capacity and revenue while reducing journey times without new construction. Despite support from some peers, concerns remain regarding the potential costs and operational complexities of modifying the existing infrastructure and contracts.
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Expert Warns HS2 Train Size Changes Could Reduce Northern Capacity and Speed
Chris Gibb, a senior rail industry official and non-executive director of DfT Operator, has warned that plans to alter the size of HS2 trains may inadvertently reduce capacity and speed for services north of Birmingham. The original order for 54 eight-carriage trains, manufactured by an Alstom-Hitachi joint venture, is under review as HS2 Ltd seeks cost reductions following the cancellation of the northern leg. Gibb argues that limiting HS2 trains to eight carriages on conventional tracks will result in overcrowding, as they cannot match the length or tilting capabilities of existing Pendolino trains. He suggests that changing the contract to order fewer, longer trains would increase costs and cause delays without solving the compatibility issue. Instead, Gibb recommends retaining the original train order while planning to replace the current Pendolino fleet with modern, longer versions by 2040. This approach, he claims, would boost capacity and revenue while reducing journey times without new construction. Despite support from some peers, concerns remain regarding the potential costs and operational complexities of modifying the existing infrastructure and contracts.
The Guardian