New Metro trains begin daytime tests

Metro customers are getting their first chance to see the new trains out on the system as daytime testing gets underway – marking a new major milestone for the £362m programme. 

 

Nexus, the public body which runs Metro, said this was the next significant step in getting the new Stadler trains ready to enter service later this year. 

 

The testing schedule allows for a process known as kilometre accumulation, putting the trains through their paces by simulating customer service, and follows a detailed testing phase which has been talking place during the night. 

 

Stadler, the Swiss train manufacturer, are building 46 new Metro trains, which are set to herald a new era of comfort, quality and reliability. Two more new trains arrived in April, bringing the total number now delivered up to seven. 

 

Stadler has now built 23 new Metro trains, half of the total order it is delivering for Nexus. 

 

Michael Richardson, Head of Fleet and Depot Replacement at Nexus, said: “We’re excited to have our first new trains in daytime testing on the network, which will give customers a chance to see them for the first time. 

 

“This marks a new milestone in our £362m Metro Fleet programme. It’s a big step forward as we continue to get the first few trains ready for customer service. 

“We will be working closely with Stadler during the daytime test runs, with the new train slotted in between other timetabled services.