Daytime testing begins for Core Valley Line’s Class 756
Wales began daytime testing of its Class 756 tri-mode trains in early April, with the train tested using overhead electrification installed between Cardiff and Pontypridd, as the operator gears up for the implementation of the trains on the Core Valley Lines.
Work to electrify the Merthyr, Treherbert and Aberdare lines began in 2020 and the Merthyr and Aberdare lines were successfully electrified in 2023. Alongside the electrification, significant work has been undertaken to upgrade railway infrastructure, including stations to ensure they can accommodate the longer trains, and new signalling equipment has also been installed.
Additionally, major trackwork projects have also been carried out to install new passing loops and the doubling of track formations in many areas, to allow an increased service frequency to be introduced on the South-east Wales network from summer 2024.
The first daytime test train ran on April 3 from Cardiff Canton depot up to Radyr and Pontypridd using the recently-installed overhead electrification. Following the initial testing, further routes on the Core Valleys Network will see further tests take place over the coming weeks in advance of an intensive train crew training programme. Once training reaches an advanced stage, the new Class 756s can enter service, with this expected to take place later this year.
The 24-strong Tf W Class 756 trains are capable of operating either on overhead electrification, on battery power, or as a diesel and battery hybrid train. All of the trains, which were built by Stadler, have now been delivered to TFW and the fleet is being prepared for entry into service.
TFW project manager Alex Cochrane said: “It was a fantastic moment to see a train run on the Valleys under electric power for the very first time and was really special.
“It is a testimony to the hard work that has gone into the project from so many teams across TFW and our infrastructure and supplier partners. “There is still plenty of work to do before they can enter passenger service, but we know customers will really appreciate the huge benefits they will bring.”