TPE Class 397

[Yorkswest]

Hi, new to the forum but long time lurker here.

Is there any updates regarding TPE’s Class 397 seeing as commercial operation is due to commence in 2019.

Since construction started last year when do we expect the first units to begin testing or has this already begun.

Additionally would you expect any further 397 orders considering they are 125mph units? If there was a Bi-Mode option could these be considered for possible new units for the next MML franchise?

 

[absolutelymilk]

There is already a thread on this topic here:

https://www.railforums.co.uk/threads/tpe-class-397.144812/

See the twitter link in post #78 for a nearly complete body shell.

 

[whhistle]

If there was a Bi-Mode option could these be considered for possible new units for the next MML franchise?

I wouldn't expect so.

I'd have thought more 8xxs will be the unit to buy.

 

[Bletchleyite]

I wouldn't expect so.

I'd have thought more 8xxs will be the unit to buy.

It would be nice for there to be some decent competition in the market for a "full size" IC bi-mode. There is the FLIRT, but is that offered as a full size unit with multiple power modules?

 

[47802]

But when Hitachi has already taken a substancial part of the demand for an Intercity Bi-mode I'm not sure other manufacturers will think it worthwhile but we will see maybe there will be another entrant for the MML Bi-nodes.

However you can see demand for a regional Bi-mode developing in the next few years so there may be alternates to Stadler.

Whether or not the 397 has been designed as a straight electric or potential Bi-mode in future I guess you will have to ask CAF that question, but as we know fitting the 940hp MTU power unit under the floor isn't easy, where as a smaller engine more likely for a regional unit may be a little easier, or alternatively you go for some kind of Power Car, or an alternate non Diesel Bi-mode.

You would think that if CAF were in a position to offer a good 397 Bi-mode they would have offered it to TPE against the Hitachi 802's and the Loco Hauled.

 

[mushroomchow]

I'm growing quite a soft spot for these CAF units. Both the 397 and 195s appear to be thoroughly attractive trains.