New trains being built as part of Transport for Wales’ (TfW) transformation plans have begun testing in Europe.

FLIRT from Sandro

© Transport for Wales

The 35 fast light intercity and regional trains (FLIRTs), built by Stadler, are now being tested in Switzerland. They will later be transferred to south Wales for testing on the Wales and Borders network before entering into service on the South Wales Metro network from the end of 2022.

The Class 756 tri-mode FLIRTs will operate services on the Rhymney, Coryton and Vale of Glamorgan lines, while the Class 231 diesel FLIRTs will operate services between Cardiff and Ebbw Vale, and Maesteg and Cheltenham.

These trains will offer greater capacity, be more frequent and have improved facilities including power sockets, information screens and air-conditioning throughout. There will be space for up to six bikes on each train and level-boarding to assist those with limited mobility.

source= https://railway-news.com/transport-for-wales-flirts-begin-testing/