could we see Mark 2/3 coaches modified to be accessible?

[37424]

You can take out intermediate vehicles though as required

Indeed it might be slightly less flexible and it does mean if you have a problem with the TSOE then you probably wont be able to run the train unless you have a spare TSOE but that's no different to a multiple unit, I guess it makes it similar to a HST in terms of flexibility in that you can take out and add coaches in the formation but you still need the 2 end power cars or in this case a DVT and a TSOE.

 

[Nym]

I'm not getting into a contest, but I'm very much aware of what's needed to mod the Mk.3s for power doors.

 

[hexagon789]

Indeed it might be slightly less flexible and it does mean if you have a problem with the TSOE then you probably wont be able to run the train unless you have a spare TSOE but that's no different to a multiple unit, I guess it makes it similar to a HST in terms of flexibility in that you can take out and add coaches in the formation but you still need the 2 end power cars or in this case a DVT and a TSOE.

No different to TfW and Grand Central electing to use shortened Mk4 sets, indeed like you say it's almost akin to a fixed formation multiple unit really

 

[DJ_K666]

Mk2's are past it obviously there are ready made solutions for MK3 but where is the market?

Obviously up to this year you could potentially use charter stock on scheduled services providing it met certain requirements such as central locking etc. Now for scheduled services you really need a fully compliant train and the power door conversion isn't cheap which you don't need for charter operation with Stewards etc. Plus of course there are potentially MK4's available. So now if we look at the market for these service it was mainly for regional services who were struggling for DMU capacity. But if we look at the market now we have the following issues.

1. The virus reducing demand for possibly quite some time.
2. TOC's such as Anglia receiving new larger capacity fleets.
3. More new fleets in the pipeline which will free up older DMU's for lease with any TOC's that are struggling for capacity.

So taking the above into account I think the answer is no.

Like the 6 Nations Rugby Specials. That was class 37 and 7x mk2A goodness. In fact the train I caught back to Cwmbran from Cardiff had a mk1 in the rake so I sat in that. Great stuff and way more comfortable than any of that modern trash.