54 of the Class 710 trains are being built in Derby by Bombardier, with the fleet initially entering service on the Gospel Oak to Barking route from this November. TfL claims they will “transform journeys” for thousands of London Overground passengers every day.
Operated by Arriva Rail London (ARL), on behalf of TfL, the new trains will also feature a new colour scheme and unique seat moquette.
The trains are constructed from strong but lightweight material, making them much more energy efficient to operate, and feature walk-through carriages for greater capacity and improved accessibility with more wheelchair spaces.
Drivers will undergo thorough training on a “cutting edge simulator” over the summer before the first train enters passenger service.
Jonathan Fox, TfL’s Director of Rail and Sponsored Services, said: “Our new state-of-the-art British built London Overground trains will be an exciting addition to London’s transport network and help boost capacity on some of the most busy and popular lines.
“We are very keen to see them introduced into service as soon as possible so our patient customers can benefit from the fully air-conditioned, walk-through trains with handy USB charging points and real-time passenger information screens.
“Over the summer, the new trains will undergo final rigorous testing and drivers will complete extensive training.
“We are now planning for the first trains to enter passenger service on the Gospel Oak to Barking route by November.”
Andy Derbyshire, Head of UK, Bombardier Transportation said: “This is a fantastic project to be involved in, and we are looking forward to our state-of-the-art British-designed and -built trains helping transform journeys between Gospel Oak and Barking, between Watford and Euston, and on West Anglia routes from Liverpool Street.”
Will Rogers, Managing Director Arriva Rail London, said: “The London Overground is vitally important to the thousands of people who use it every day.
“This is why we are focused on continuously improving the travelling experience for our customers and working environment for our people.
“Our team has been working hard to prepare for the introduction of these new trains and we are really excited about the benefits they will bring in the long-term.”
