New Tyne and Wear Metro trains are now running on the Sunderland line, enhancing passenger experience and reliability.
A new train started running on February 18th, going between Sunderland and Newcastle Airport. This is a big step for the new fleet’s rollout, following the first train’s debut last December.
The Stadler train debuted on the Sunderland line early, running from South Hylton, through Sunderland, and continuing to Newcastle Airport on the Green Line. This initial run started last year on December 18th.
Nexus, the operator of the Metro system, wanted the new train in Sunderland. They hope it brings enhanced comfort, quality, and reliability to passengers, as the trains were designed with customer input, with over 23,000 people responding to the design process.
New train features include linear seating, chargers, and climate control. The trains also boast 44 CCTV cameras and advanced battery tech. Accessibility is improved with innovative sliding steps.
Stadler is manufacturing a total of 46 new trains. Thirteen trains have already been delivered, and twenty more are expected this year. The entire fleet upgrade represents a £362 million investment. With the first trains now running, the mayor welcomes the progress.
Nexus collaborated closely with Network Rail to make this deployment possible, despite facing various challenges. The ultimate goal is to deploy all the new trains soon. Nexus expressed its satisfaction in serving Sunderland customers, noting the trains’ journey across the River Wear.
These trains aim to significantly improve the customer experience. The Sunderland line, being complex and managed by Network Rail, requires close collaboration for seamless integration. Both old and new trains will operate together, with the objective of having 23 new trains in service by the end of 2025.
The Sunderland Council leader has expressed happiness about the new trains. People have eagerly looked forward to this upgrade, recognizing the Metro’s vital importance to Sunderland. The new trains are expected to improve journeys, potentially encouraging more people to use the service.
The airport welcomes the arrival of passengers via the new trains. Stadler continues to support Nexus in this endeavor. Passengers can anticipate enjoying better, more modern trains. Stadler is actively preparing additional trains for deployment.