Southeastern issues tender notice for new fleet of EMUs

Southeastern has invited expressions of interest from train manufacturers for a new fleet of electric multiple units and associated maintenance support.

Published on November 8, the tender notice is for a core order of between 350 and 570 vehicles, with an option for up to 70 additional coaches.

Key requirements include compatibility with all Southeastern routes, except HS1. The interiors must be suitable for both metro and main line operation, and have toilets and air-conditioning. The new fleet must also include options for traction batteries, so that EMUs can be operated in depots and sidings or on nonelectrified line sections of up to 20 miles.

The trains would need to be manufactured and introduced into full service by October 2027.

Manufacturers have until

December 9 to submit tenders for supply, financing and maintenance.

After this deadline, Southeastern says it will complete a business case to “inform and determine which fleet or fleets are replaced”, and therefore the final quantity for the core order.

Invitations to Pre-Qualify and then Invitations to Negotiate will be issued to successful bidders before the end of 2023.