British Rail Class 378
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The Class 378[1] is a type of Electric Multiple Unit that has been ordered for the new London Overground network and franchise. The type is derived from the Class 376 trains currently used by Southeastern, and will be part of the Electrostar family, but will feature significant differences. Primarily, the Class 378 will feature all longitudinal seating similar to that used on London Underground rolling stock, which is necessary for the high passenger volume services expected to be run on London Overground. Units will be constructed by Bombardier Transportation in two separate batches[2]:
- North London Line - Twenty-four 3-Car units will be built. These units will have dual voltage capability, taking current at 25 kV AC from overhead wires or 750 V DC from third rail and will be designated as Class 378/0. These trains will replace the Class 313 units currently operated in 2009.
- East London Line - Twenty 4-Car units will be built. These units will operate solely on the third rail system, as they will operate a route that extends into South London, which does not have overhead wires (though as with other DC Electrostar units, it is likely that they will be constructed to allow for easy conversion to AC operation). These trains, which will be designated Class 378/1, will replace the A60/A62 Stock currently in use when the East London Line extensions open in 2010.
These trains will not initially be used on the Gospel Oak to Barking Line, which is not electrified. Although electrification is a long-term aim, it is not included in any of the short or medium term proposals that are planned once TfL takes over. As a consequence, it is likely that DMUs will be used for the foreseeable future[3].
The deal between Bombardier and Transport for London was for a total of 152 individual cars, priced at approximately £220 million, with deliveries expected to begin in mid 2008. This contract also allows the option to purchase almost 200 additional cars. The vehicles will be maintained at a newly constructed depot near New Cross Gate[4].
[edit] References
- ^ TfL Board Meeting, 25/10/06 Agenda Item 4, Page 5 "Following the announcement for 44 trains for London Overground services, Bombardier have started mobilisation at their Derby plant. The first trains will be delivered in late 2008 and have been categorised by Network Rail as Class 378s."
- ^ TfL awards £223 million new trains contract
- ^ Transport for London welcomes Government consideration of key rail upgrade scheme
- ^ Bombardier Wins A £223 Million Order From Transport For London For 152 Electric Multiple Unit Cars For The United Kingdom
