First Class 555 set for early December arrival – by HST!

TYNE and Wear Metro operator Nexus has confirmed that the first of its 46 new Stadler-built Class 555 electric multiple units is due to arrive in early December. A total of 46 trains are being constructed by the Swiss manufacturer at its works in Bussnang to replace the existing Metro-Cammell fleet, and will be delivered in phases through to the end of 2024. All of the units will be transported by rail from Switzerland via the Channel Tunnel. From Wembley to Pelaw Junction (where they will join the Metro network), the units will be hauled by a pair of Rail Adventure’s Class 43 former High Speed Train power cars. One of the system’s MetroCammell-built ‘Metrocars’ (which are being replaced by the Stadler multiple units) will tow them to the depot at South Gosforth. The first two Class 555s are undergoing testing at Velim in the Czech Republic. Specialist learning and development Metro drivers from Nexus, who will be delivering training on the new fleet for the rest of the driving team, will be taking part, getting their first opportunities to drive the trains on the test track. Following arrival on the Metro system, each of the 46 new trains will undergo a process of “rigorous” testing and commissioning before entering passenger service.