Avanti West Coast – the train operator which operates on the West Coast Main Line in the United Kingdom has launched its newest train between Liverpool and London – with the Class 807 Evero making its debut on the route.
Avanti West Coast Evero Class 807 train at Liverpool Lime Street – Image, Avanti.
The Class 807 trains are based on the Hitachi Intercity Express Train platform, which many operators have used in the UK. They are electrically powered and comprise 451 seats across seven train carriages.
As well as Liverpool, the new trains will also run between London, the West Midlands and Blackpool, with further increases in services planned as part of next month’s timetable uplift.
This follows the inaugural Class 807 passenger service between London and Birmingham last month, building on the successful launch of its Class 805 Evero stablemate, which recently celebrated 150 days in service on the West Midlands, Chester and North Wales routes.
In terms of the passenger experience, these new trains feature wireless charging for electrical devices, improved Wi-Fi, more seats than the trains they replace and greater legroom thanks to a more ergonomic design, larger luggage racks and more real-time customer information screens which are easier to read.
The new trains also feature improved wheelchair spaces with contrasting carpets and a large accessibility symbol, so customers do not place their luggage in this space. There will be improvements to the accessible toilets compared to the previous fleet as well as Braille and large print labels on seats.
The Evero fleet was assembled by Hitachi in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham and is maintained at Alstom’s Oxley depot near Wolverhampton in the West Midlands.
This 23-strong Evero fleet is made up of 10 electric Class 807s (seven carriages each) as well as the 13 bi-mode Class 805s (five carriages each) which are replacing the Voyager trainsets.
These new trains will work alongside the Pendolino trains, which have recently undergone the largest-ever fleet upgrade in the UK thanks to a £117m investment.
In Quotes
Avanti West Coast managing director Andy Mellors said:
“The introduction of the Class 807 Evero on our network marks a significant milestone. The feedback from our people and customers about our new fleet has so far been fantastic and it’s created a real buzz about our services. I’m confident these new trains will provide a significant step change in comfort and a much greener way to travel.
“The challenge we have is to now build on this excitement, which coupled with our recent upturn in performance and plans to run more services, will improve connectivity to the regions we serve and encourage more people to opt for rail.”
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:
“The launch of the first fully electric Evero service between Liverpool and London is a landmark moment for our region.
“The £350 million investment in greener, more comfortable trains is not only a step towards a more sustainable future, but also a huge boost for connectivity and the local economy.
“Here in the Liverpool City Region, we know all about how important good-quality trains are, so it’s exciting to see this new fleet offering people more options for travel. The new service will not only make it easier for people to travel between Liverpool and the capital, but it supports our efforts to make the Liverpool City Region a thriving, green economy.
“I’m excited to see how this will contribute to a more sustainable transport network and help to connect communities across the country.”
Jim Brewin, Head of UK and Ireland at Hitachi Rail said:
“Evero demonstrates yet another significant and successful milestone for our world class manufacturing teams in Newton Aycliffe Co. Durham. In collaboration with our local UK and global supply chain, Hitachi Rail has delivered the first trains of a 23-strong fleet which is a true testament to the resilience and determination of everyone involved in this remarkable project.
“Alongside our partners and stakeholders, Hitachi Rail are thrilled to be able to spread the benefits of our rolling stock and improve passenger journeys on the West Coast.”
Let’s hope the uplift is enough
Avanti West Coast Class 807 at the buffer stop end of Liverpool Lime Street Station – Image, Avanti.
Witnessing the mad rush at Liverpool Lime Street Station, where a nine-carriage Pendolino train was packed to capacity on a Sunday lunchtime with standing room only (and late into an evening when returning to the station after a day in Manchester), these new trains cannot come soon enough for Liverpool region.
It’s enough for some to consider driving. However, the drive to Liverpool from London is the best part of 220 miles, taking just under 4 hours 30 – when a train will get you there in just under 2 and half hours – centre to centre. Costs like fuel and parking fees have to be factored in too.
Combined with the Pendolinos that also serve this route, it should provide an uplift between the North West and London
We’ll have to see in the long term if this is enough capacity.
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