New Class 777 shown off to passengers

Handover of first new Merseyrail unit followed by public display.

MERSEYRAIL passengers were invited to have their first look around one of the new Class 777 electric multiple units following the handover of the first set from Stadler.

The manufacturer is supplying 53 of the four-car units, which will replace the third-rail electric system’s current fleet of Class 507s and 508 EMUs.

Unit No. 777010 was the first to be accepted by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA), which has purchased the new trains for the network. It was put on display to the media and local rail passengers who helped influence its design at Birkenhead North station on September 7.

Two public viewing events took place at the station later that week.

Features

The trains have steps which slide out to the platform to make boarding easier and more space for wheelchairs, prams and bicycles. They also feature wi-fi, intelligent air-conditioning systems and improved passenger information displays.

Testing has involved thousands of driving hours on the Merseyrail network and more than 100 checks for compliance with UK and European safety standards.

LCRCA said details regarding the introduction of the trains into passenger service were still awaiting confirmation.

LCRCA Class 777, No. 777010, the first unit to be handed over, pictured on display at Birkenhead North.

LCRCA Additional space for bicycles, wheelchairs and pushchairs is also part of the unit specification, which was determined following rail user consultation.

LCRCA At-seat charging sockets and perch seats in gangways are among the Class 777’s interior features.