Merseyrail Thread - first new train handed over

[wirewiper]

Stadler has handed over the first Merseyrail class 777 unit to the Liverpool City Region, which will own the trains - the first City Region in the country to do so.

The new units have been custom-built for the Merseyrail network and take into account its tunnels, sharp curves and Victorian infrastructure. They also have a host of passenger-friendly features including pioneering sliding-step technology that gives step-free access to all. The trains also have on-board WiFi, improved passenger information screens and more space for wheelchairs, pushchairs and bicycles.  

There will eventually be 53 class 777 units and they will replace all class 507/508 units operating on the Merseyrail network. 

More info, and photos: www.focustransport.org/2021/09/class-777-stadler-train-handed-over-to.html

[ThinLizzy]

Sorry to bump the thread

First new cl777 (777049) entered service today. Fair few videos on YouTube- have to say they're pretty impressive looking units

[wirewiper]

Jan 23, 2023 14:35:41 GMT ThinLizzy said:

Sorry to bump the thread

First new cl777 (777049) entered service today. Fair few videos on YouTube- have to say they're pretty impressive looking units

No need to say sorry!

No directly Merseyrail, but Lancashire County Council is funding a new rail link bus service connecting Skelmersdale directly with Kirkby Station. The 319 Trainlink service is operated by Stagecoach using buses in a dedicated black-and-yellow livery (the same colours Merseyrail uses) and is funded from Lancashire County Council's BSIP (Bus Service Improvement Plan) funding. 

www.route-one.net/news/lancashire-bsip-money-sees-319-trainlink-route-launch/


It has also emerged that seven of the class 777 units will be equipped with battery packs, this will allow them to operate to a new station at Headbolt Lane which is a mile beyond the current terminus at Kirkby. This extension will not be electrified. The seven units will be classed 777/1 

[MetrolineGA1511]

On a corny note, I am hoping to ride a 777 in Liverpool on Eurovision Day (May 13th)!

[wirewiper]

The battery-equipped 777/1 units are now starting final testing on the network, so should be entering service on the Kirkby line soon. If the trains are successful, further battery-equipped units could allow Merseyrail services to expand to cover all six Boroughs in the Liverpool City Region and could reach places such as Skelmersdale, Runcorn, Warrington and even Wrexham.