Factfile: Prototype notes
The Intercity Express Project (IEP) led to the development of a range of bi-mode multiple units based on Hitachi’s successful Class 395 ‘Javelin’ trains which operate the high-speed line from St Pancras into Kent. The first of these to enter service are the five-car Class 800s for the Great Western Railway franchise which are gradually being phased into operation on services from Paddington to South Wales, Bristol and Worcester. They will be joined in due course by nine-car Class 803 units. Similar units destined for the East Coast Main Line franchise (currently Virgin Trains East Coast) will be Class 801. As has been widely reported, delays to overhead line installation and cancellation of electrification on some lines has led to the bi-mode trains having to operate on diesel power much more than was originally intended. The Class 800 unit consists of a pair of streamlined driving trailer cars sandwiching three non-driving motor cars. First Class accommodation, plus crew and kitchen/trolley catering contained behind three blanked-out windows, are provided in one driving trailer, while the other contains just Standard Class accommodation. The three non-driving cars comprise a motor open composite and two motor open standards. At 26m long, the cars are 3m longer than the Mk 3s and the modern uncluttered interiors offer more seats than the HSTS which they replace. Initially, GWR is using pairs of Class 800s coupled together for services to Swansea and Bristol, with single five-car units on the Worcester line.