First Crossrail Train Gets A Test Drive... In Derby

Will Noble
By Will Noble Last edited 92 months ago

Looks like this article is a bit old. Be aware that information may have changed since it was published.

First Crossrail Train Gets A Test Drive... In Derby
Photo: TfL.

The first Crossrail train has taken to the test track. The track isn't in London though — not even in Reading or Shenfield — but further north, in Derby.

That makes sense considering the new fleet of 66, nine-carriage trains is being manufactured by Bombardier Transportation in Derby.

Rigorous testing — which begins in Derby then moves to another test centre in Leicestershire — involves loading the trains with over 100 tonnes of weight to simulate the crush of rush hour passengers.

What the inside of the trains will Look like. Photo: TfL.

Another test sees carriages placed in a climatic chamber, ensuring passengers will be kept comfortable in all kinds of London temperatures. Sounds good to us.

Once trials are completed, interiors of the trains will be finished off, with seats and moquette added.

When will Londoners get to have a ride? The first trains will enter service in May 2017 on TfL Rail between Liverpool Street and Shenfield.

Further trains will come into service between Heathrow and Paddington in May 2018.

Last Updated 29 July 2016