New Build Mk3s - £750k each.

[rail-britain]

If the train only needed two pantographs (rear in use), then why does it have THREE pantographs?
In the event of a pantograph failure the centre one becomes the power source for the other half, the failed pantograph remains out of use

 

[ukrob]

If the train only needed two pantographs (rear in use), then why does it have THREE pantographs?
In the event of a pantograph failure the centre one becomes the power source for the other half, the failed pantograph remains out of use

There isn't.

The diagram you yourself linked to quite clearly shows two, exactly the same as now. The additional transformer coach is no where near the middle either - I think you are talking nonsense now sorry.

 

[Geezertronic]

I can't find much configuration info about the Pendolino lengthening but from what I can find it says the new coaches will be 31 pairs of an intermediate motor car and a transformer car, with "minor changes" to the configuration of each extended set including SDO controls.

http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/10/alstom-opens-new-pendolino-depot.html

Would be nice to have a bit more info about how they intend to lengthen the existing 9 car sets (such as where the new coaches will fit into the sets and other questions asked in this thread)

 

[swt_passenger]

Would be nice to have a bit more info about how they intend to lengthen the existing 9 car sets (such as where the new coaches will fit into the sets and other questions asked in this thread)

Between First and Standard according to the diagram linked in post #24.

Now: DMfMfTfMfTMTMDM

After: DMfMfTfMfTMTMTMDM

Seems logical, as it keeps the usual M/T alternation through the train.