Double-deck HS2?

Alstom unveils its Very High Speed Train concept as it prepares a double-deck train bid for High Speed 2.

ALSTOM unveiled its proposed Very High Speed Train concept at the Palace of Westminster on May 24, as it prepares to bid for the HS2 train contract.

The manufacturer unveiled a double-deck train that would be available only in European gauge, and so could operate only on HS2.

There is a possibility that a singledeck version could also be ordered for trains that would operate on the conventional network. Alstom said that would depend upon the tender notice from HS2 Ltd, which is due to be issued next year.

Contracts for trains are likely to be awarded in 2019, ahead of their entry into traffic in 2026 on Phase 1 of the route between London and Birmingham. The deal is worth £7.5 billion.

The trains will be able to operate at the 360kph (224mph) maximum speed currently required by HS2. They will be fitted with articulated bogies - this reduces the cost (through fewer components), as well as reducing the weight of the train, meaning they will have less of an impact on infrastructure.

“The train offers 40% more space and 40% more capacity for passengers,” said Alstom Acting Managing Director UK & Ireland and HS2 Director Henrik Anderberg.

Speaking at the launch, he said that that the train’s planned lower costs achieved through its construction could mean lower prices for tickets. Also, the extra capacity created on double-deck trains means that perhaps fewer trains are needed overall, thereby reducing the contract price. The

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