SWR sets out timescale for removing its non-electrified unit fleet
REPLACEMENT of South Western Railway’s 40 diesel multiple units is expected in the next five to 10 years.
The target was published at the end of September in the company’s report entitled ‘Journey to a net zero future’ which presents its plans for achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Although third-rail electric multiple units make-up the bulk of SWR’s fleet, the operator has eight two-car Class 158 and 32 three-car Class 159 units which are used on services to and from nonelectrified parts of its network, including Waterloo-Exeter/ Salisbury, Salisbury-Romsey and between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier.
Originally constructed by British Rail Engineering Ltd at Derby Litchurch Lane Works (the Class 159s were rebuilt in two phases from Class 158s), all have seen around 30 years in service. Given their age, SWR says that retrofitting them with lower carbon technology is not deemed economically viable.
Although replacement vehicles powered by hydrogen are not being ruled-out at this stage, battery-electric vehicles are the more likely option as the technology is already available. It says, however, that there are still challenges to be addressed regarding range and charging infrastructure.