UK: Transport for Wales, TfW, has commenced testing the first three-car Class 398 tram-train on the 170 km Valley line.
The dual-mode vehicle, powered by overhead lines and Li-Ion batteries, with a 10 km range in battery mode, is earmarked for South Wales. In 2022, it was on display at InnoTrans.
It is reported that this is the first Citylink tram-train, equipped with traction batteries. With a capacity of 252 passengers, including 126 of them seated, it reaches speeds of 100 km/h. The interior features six bicycle spaces and areas for wheelchair users, though no onboard toilets are provided despite the route is rather long.
Testing of hybrid Stadler Citylink tram-train in the UK. Source: TfW
To date, TfW has taken delivery of 23 out of 36 tram-trains ordered in 2019 from Stadler’s Valencia plant. The fleet’s inaugural run is now slated for December, a year later than the originally planned 2023 launch.
