Second hint from DfT at new DMUs being procured

[alexl92]

That just isn't true is it. There are plenty of services run by TPE where 3 coaches are more than adequate. Perhaps not during the peak hours but definitely during the daytime.

In around 2008 (I can't remember for certain), the forecasts suggested that by 2014, TPE would need 8-car services on most trains. They weren't wrong, but they didn't act on it. I don't remember the last time I travelled on a 3-car service which was adequate.

Why not stick with doors at 1/4 and 3/4 but have interior doors between the vestibule and saloon?

Neil

I understand what you mean, but where trains are overcrowded and passengers have to stand down the aisles, the doors make it very awkward. You sometimes get in with the door between first and standard on 185s.

 

[61653 HTAFC]

An issue with double doors at the vehicle ends would be: where does the outer door go when open? If it's a pocket door there's nowhere, and if plug doors are used it would be held beyond the sides of the carriage.

 

[alexl92]

An issue with double doors at the vehicle ends would be: where does the outer door go when open? If it's a pocket door there's nowhere, and if plug doors are used it would be held beyond the sides of the carriage.

Couldn't you use a system where the door pivots, as on some coaches?

http://www.busandcoachbuyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Front-entrance.jpg

 

[edwin_m]

I think the problem is that a pivoting door would wallop anyone standing too close - not a problem with the road coach doors illustrated as the driver can see if there is anybody in the way. Also when open they would obstruct boarding for people who stand to one side of the doors to allow others off first. Pivoting it to swing inwards like a Pacer door would solve the second problem but with no step in the doorway it would then wallop the people inside!

A swing plug door might work but they are rather slow. I think the 158 doors are technically swing plugs although the characteristic rotating vertical pole is hidden behind a panel.