Transport for Wales (TfW) has begun testing its new fleet of electric tram-trains on recently electrified railway lines in the South Wales Valleys, marking a significant step forward in the development of the South Wales Metro.
The Stadler Class 398 CITYLINK tram-trains form part of an GBP 800 million investment in brand-new trains across Wales and the Borders. Designed to operate on both heavy rail and tram lines, the three-carriage vehicles can run on overhead electric lines as well as battery power, with a capacity of over 250 passengers.
The trials follow substantial upgrades to infrastructure, including the electrification of more than 170km of railway across the Merthyr, Aberdare and Treherbert lines, part of a wider GBP 1 billion investment in the region’s rail network. A new GBP 100 million purpose-built depot has also been established in Taff’s Well to serve as the control centre for the Metro and the base for the fleet of 36 tram-trains.
Marie Daly, Chief Operating Officer at TfW, said: “This is another major milestone for us at TfW. We’ve already introduced our brand-new Class 756 trains onto the Merthyr, Aberdare, and Treherbert lines to improve the experience for our passengers. We’re now excited to progress to the next phase of the project, testing our light rail tram-trains that will offer a turn-up-and-go service as part of the South Wales Metro.”
She added: “By transforming our rail network, we aim to provide reliable, comfortable, and attractive public transport options for our customers.”
Andrew Gazzard, Head of Operational Readiness at TfW, said: “Our teams now need to gain familiarisation and handling experience of the trains, and we need to embark on driver training later in the year. It’s a really proud moment for me and the team to be able to see these tram-trains on the network and we look forward to the next stage in getting them prepared for passengers.”
The tram-trains are expected to improve frequency and accessibility on core commuter routes, supporting TfW’s long-term aim to deliver a more sustainable and efficient public transport system for South Wales.
Share on:
