Press release -
HS2: Hitachi and Bombardier bid to build trains
- 7 July 2020 - this article was updated to reflect the re-submission of the HBH-S rolling stock bid to HS2
Two UK-based rail giants have submitted a ‘Great British’ train proposal to High Speed Two (HS2) that would be the most advanced, customer-oriented train ever to run in the UK.
The contract, worth approximately £2.75billion, is to design, build and maintain at least 54 trains for Phase One of HS2.
Hitachi has pioneered Japan’s world-renowned Shinkansen ‘bullet trains’ while Bombardier offers a depth of international experience from its high speed trains operating in Europe and on the world’s largest network in China.
In 2015, the two companies together delivered the Frecciarossa (Red Arrow) ETR1000 for Trenitalia, which is the fastest yet quietest in-service high speed train in Europe. Operating at speeds up to 225 mph, it has transformed passenger experience and connectivity across Italy.
Its success has been recognised by Trenitalia placing a further order in June 2019 for 14 new trains, increasing Frecciarossa high speed services across Italy.
Hitachi Rail’s UK Country Lead, Jim Brewin said: “Hitachi-Bombardier’s Great British train for HS2 would be a shining example of British ingenuity. Our bid, if successful, would bring significant benefits for economies and communities, while truly transforming connectivity and passengers’ experience.”
Bombardier’s President, UK, Matt Byrne said: “HS2 is this generation's chance to transform our country. Our Great British train will connect our great cities and improve the journeys of every passenger. HS2’s vision is to be a catalyst for growth across Britain – we are ready to make that happen.”
Alongside London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds, HS2 services will also serve destinations beyond the core HS2 network, including York, Newcastle, Liverpool, the North West, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Topics
Categories
Hitachi Rail Europe (HRE) is a global transport specialist with over 100 years of experience building pioneering trains, offering quality maintenance and developing innovative new technology. As a leader in rail we’re improving transport for passengers, connecting communities and helping to boost the UK’s economy.
Having delivered the hugely popular Javelin HS1 fleet in advance of the 2012 London Games, Hitachi is delivering major orders for new trains, with 286 due to be in service by the end of 2021. Our purpose-built factory in County Durham is delivering 122 new high speed trains as part of the UK Government’s £5.7bn Intercity Express Programme and a fleet of 70 regional trains for Scotland. With a proud reputation for innovation, Hitachi is at the forefront of using new digital technology to enhance passenger experience and enrich Britain’s railway’s heritage. Hitachi rail is growing rapidly, employing over 3,000 people and soon to be operational at 15 locations across the UK.
For more information about the company, please visit www.hitachirail-eu.com
