TPE units earmarked for digital technology fitment

Real-time data feed should further increase Class 185 reliability.

ALREADY one of the most reliable train fleets in Britain, the 51 Class 185 diesel multiple units operated by TransPennine Express are to have technology installed which will feed back data on performance and potential maintenance needs.

Siemens Mobility, which manufactured and maintains the units, announced the £2.7m project in partnership with TPE and fleet owner Eversholt Rail.

The information will be accessed using the Siemens

Railigent system, allowing

TPE and maintenance teams to get a real-time operational insight for each train. It should also mean that depot work on vehicles can be planned more effectively. Aspects of operation such as doors and batteries can be monitored and faults more easily detected and located.

The Class 185 fleet has travelled over 143 million miles since its introduction in 2006. The work is expected to be completed by autumn next year.

CHRIS MILNER Above: TPE Class 185 Nos. 185139/185136 approaching New Barnetby level crossing with the 10.18 Manchester Piccadilly-Cleethorpes on September 8.

CHRIS MILNER Left: Easing over the Selby swing bridge on August 31, TPE unit No. 185149 slows for the station call with the 13.08 Hull to Manchester Piccadilly working.