Marcus' Model Railway Journey

Close-up of the Disabled sign

Image showing the electric sliding doors.

Great Western Railway Mark 3s were fitted with power doors in 2018

The MK3 coach design adopted secondary air suspension between the body and the bogies, giving an exceptionally smooth ride.

The bogies, classified BT10, were designed specifically for the Mark 3 and have coil-spring primary suspension with hydraulic dampers, enabling a maximum speed of 125 mph (200 km/h).

Disc brakes in place of the Mark 2 clasp brakes completed the engineering package enabling – in conjunction with wheel slip protection (WSP) – efficient deceleration from 125 mph and almost silent brake operation.

I wish I'd spotted the hair before I took the photo!.......

This is the Hornby R4896 MK3 SLIDING DOOR TGS in GWR green.

Although it has a sliding door at one end of the coach, the guard compartment still uses the old slam door.

14th July 2023

Škoda Group secures contract to supply 10 trams to Bergamo in Italy​

Škoda Group has been awarded a contract to supply ten of its ForCity Classic type bi-directional trams to the city of Bergamo in Italy.

The contract for the trams is part of a turnkey project to build a new tram line in the city and includes three years of full service. A new second tram line, T2, will lead from the city centre to the northwest part of the city.

The project is financed by Italy's PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan).

The trams will be specifically designed for the new line, and are a significant investment in sustainable urban transport.

They will be a development of Škoda Group's proven ForCity Classic type, which features the latest modern tram technology.

Each tram has a maximum speed of 70 km/h and has five sections and three bogies, two of which will have traction motors.

Delivery of the trams is planned to take place during the next three years, and they will enable Bergamo to enhance its public transport infrastructure and meet the growing demands of its residents.

These will be Škoda Group's first trams to incorporate an advanced anti-collision system, for enhanced safety and protection of both passengers and pedestrians.

The driver's cab is air conditioned and is ergonomically designed for unparalleled comfort, while a broad view from the cab provides better safety and situational awareness, and the passenger compartments are also equipped with air conditioning.

Remote diagnostics will enable enables real-time monitoring and proactive maintenance.

Designed specifically for Bergamo, they have a 100% low floor, with easy access for people with reduced mobility through an automatic door extension that overlaps the gap between the door and the platform's edge and is operated by the driver.

Construction of the trams will be in collaboration with Italian producers to supply high-quality components that will highlight Škoda Group's commitment to excellence and international partnerships.

This contract solidifies Škoda Group's position as a key player in the international tram industry, whilst the Bergamo order represents a significant step towards enhancing the city's public transport system.

It also showcases the Group's commitment to innovation, safety, and customer satisfaction.

Jan Harder, President of Region West at Škoda Group, said “This success on the Italian market is a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence and our unwavering dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our customers.

“I am very glad, that Bergamo has chosen our well-proven platform solution that has even better parameters, than previous models. Opening our office in Florence last October has allowed us to better understand the Italian market and tailor our solutions to its specific requirements.

“We further emphasize Škoda Group's commitment to providing sustainable and efficient transport solutions that contribute to the overall well-being of communities.”

14th July 2023

London North Eastern Railway runs trial train to Liverpool Street​

In an effort to mitigate the effect on passengers during disruption to services, London North Eastern Railway (LNER) ran one of its Azuma trains from Finsbury Park to London Liverpool Street during the early hours of this morning, Friday, 14th July.

The trial run took place to determine the long-term feasibility of diverting services during periods of planned disruption or when significant engineering works were taking place.

London North Eastern Railway normally operates services between London King's Cross and its stations on the East Coast route, but as part of its strategic contingency planning the company is investigating the potential feasibility of whether, in certain instances, Liverpool Street could be used as an alternative.

On this first verification run, the trial used a bi-mode Azuma set that departed from Finsbury Park in the early hours of this morning and arrived at London Liverpool Street station in self-power (diesel) mode.

Onboard the train was a specialist team that conducted a number of checks and assessments in support of the verification exercise.

However, there will need to be a significant amount of detailed testing, validation, and review before any proposals to redirect London North Eastern Railway trains can be considered.

Today's trial was the first of a number of compatibility stages that will need to be carried out to support approval for London North Eastern Railway to operate its services across the proposed contingency route.

To maintain passenger services and minimise road travel during periods of planned engineering works, London North Eastern Railway regularly uses various diversionary routes, including via Lincoln, the Durham coastline, and Carlisle.

WATCH:

LNER Azuma completes test run to London Liverpool Street​

14th July 2023

Appeal to be launched for restoration of steam locomotive 46443​

It is now 12 years since Ivatt 2MT 46443 went on display in the Severn Valley Railway's The Engine House visitor centre at Highley after it was withdrawn from service because of boiler issues.

A new charity has now been formed to help resurrect the locomotive, which is owned by the ‘SVR 46443 Fund', and the charity is in the process of opening an appeal to help make this happen.

Arriving on the Severn Valley Railway on 22nd April 1967 in full working order, 46443 rapidly became a mainstay of the railway's fleet.

As well as being reliable and economical, 46443 was well suited for use on footplate experience courses and hauling shorter six- or seven-coach trains.

In 1984 through the contributions and efforts of a large number of Severn Valley Railway volunteers, and others, 46443 was purchased and soon received the richly-deserved nickname, of The People's Engine.

The Fund's chair Alvin Barker said: “For this incredibly useful engine to live again on the SVR there will need to be significant funds raised.

The committee feels that the most appropriate way forward is to convert to a simple charity, which will give access to many sources of funds and where applicable, Gift Aid on donations.

“This would need the approval of both the shareholders and the Charity Commission. Members' shares would be converted to certificates of interest which cannot be sold or transferred, but do initially give automatic membership of the charity.

“Further details will be circulated on receiving a response from the Charity Commission, together with any future fund-raising projects that we propose. If you would like to help in any way, please email your interest and details of how you could support us with this project to Roger Scanlon at roger.scanlon@svrlive.com .”

14th July 2023

Steam locomotive 7812 Erlestoke Manor’s return celebrated with special train in Somerset​

Earlier this month, Erlestoke Manor Fund shareholders, supporters and suppliers were invited to two special trips on the West Somerset Railway to celebrate the return of the locomotive from a major overhaul.

Over 100 guests enjoyed the trips between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead on Saturday 1st July 2023, with cab visits and tours of Minehead depot during the first layover.

The EMF is now working to return 7802 Bradley Manor to steam in 2024, before it starts the overhaul of GWR Large Prairie No. 5164.

Adrian Hassell, Chair of Erlestoke Manor Fund, commented “This major event, in our 50th year, was superbly supported by so many supporters and guests, many of whom travelled considerable distances to Bishops Lydeard from the normal home of 7812 on the Severn Valley Railway

I must give many thanks to all those involved in putting this event on, but particular plaudits must go to the West Somerset Railway, for both the planning for and the execution on the day of the event. Their support and hospitality were first rate”.

15th July 2023

Škoda Group wins contract to supply metro trains to Bulgarian capital​

Bulgarian capital city Sofia is to buy eight new metro trains from Škoda Group for over 65 million euros.

Škoda will produce the four-car, eighty-metre trains for the carrier Metropoliten EAD at its production sites in Ostrava and Pilsen in the Czech republic.

The new trains will enter service in 2026 and will run on lines 1, 2 and 4.

Since 2010, Škoda Group has delivered 210 trolleybuses to five Bulgarian cities.

The train is similar to that already delivered to Warsaw, the capital of Poland, However, Sofia's trains will additionally benefit from air conditioning, which is important given the region's warm climate.

Two wheelchair compartments are provided to improve accessibility and comfortable transport for all persons.

The metro trains will be equipped with a safety system with automatic speed control.

They will be powered by traction three-phase asynchronous motors, with recuperation – during braking, they return electricity to the power grid.

The Sofia metro runs on a 1435 mm standard gauge and is powered via a contact (third) rail.

The power supply is DC, and the nominal voltage 750 ± 250 V.

The design speed of the new trains is 90 km/h.

Zdeněk Sváta, President Region Central East at Škoda Group, said, “We are very proud to deliver new, modern, and spacious metro trains to the people of Sofia. After Warsaw in Poland, the Bulgarian capital is the next destination for our metro. We have extensive experience with the metro, having previously modernised the Prague metro and supplied complete traction equipment for the subways in Kiev, Budapest and also in South Korea.

“This success highlights our expertise in public transport. We offer a complete portfolio of environmentally friendly vehicles for public transport. I am confident that, based on this cooperation, we will establish a strong relationship with Metropoliten EAD that will support the future development of Sofia's public transport system. I strongly believe that the Sofia metro trains will exceed expectations and further strengthen our reputation as a reliable partner in urban mobility solutions”.

Stoyan Braotev, Executive Director of Metropoliten EAD, said, “The opening of the new metro station, located between Slivnica and Obelia stations, will shorten the running interval of trains on the second metro line, which is necessary due to the increased passenger flow during peak hours. This, together with the necessary partial reduction of peak intervals on lines 1 and 4, will be made possible by the 8 new trains. To ensure the future efficient operation of lines 1, 2 and 4, it is expected that the start of operation of the new station will take place simultaneously with the delivery of the aforementioned Škoda trains.”

17th July 2023


TRANSPORT FOR WALES

July 20, 22 and 29 travel update​

Transport for Wales (TfW) is reminding passengers of the importance of checking for the latest travel information with industrial action set to take place at the end of July.


Transport for Wales (TfW) is reminding passengers of the importance of checking for the latest travel information with industrial action set to take place at the end of July.

The RMT Union have announced three days of strike action to affect 14 train operating companies during July, on Thursday 20 July, Saturday 22 July and Saturday 29 July.

The train drivers' union ASLEF has also announced a ban on overtime from Monday 17 July to Saturday 22 July.

TfW is not involved in the industrial action but some of its services are likely to be busier than usual due to the reduced timetable put in place by other operators.

TfW services will run as timetabled, but services may be busier than usual due to the industrial action taking place at the operators, particularly on the routes below:

• Carmarthen - Swansea - Bridgend - Cardiff Central - Newport - Severn Tunnel Junction
• Gloucester - Cheltenham
• North Wales - Chester - Crewe - Manchester
• Shrewsbury - Birmingham International

For the latest travel information visit Journey Check, the Transport for Wales website, or the award-winning TfW mobile app.

17th July 2023

An update on steam locomotive 2007 Prince of Wales​

The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust has released an update on the work to construct new-build LNER P2 No. 2007 Prince of Wales.

Whilst progress has slowed recently, mainly due to the ongoing overhaul of A1 No. 60163 Tornado and the Trust moving to its new workshop, work has still been ongoing.

The locomotive's cylinder block is now essentially complete and is now being prepared for a hydraulic test.

The manufacturers, Howco, found issues with the porosity in the cylinder covers when they were being machined, which meant new castings needed to be made.

A small adjustment has been made in the casting process which now means that the castings are free from porosity.

Daniela Filova, who machined the new castings, has also been working on casting new sleeves that are required for the valve chest covers and these are soon to be dispatched to Howco.

A problem with the Philidas self-locking nuts that are used all over the frames whereby a defect was found in their locking devices has now been resolved with replacements delivered.

Whilst some of these nuts have been replaced, it was decided not to change all of them due to moving to the new workshop.

Replacement manganese steel liners, which are to be used on the pony truck cannon box, have been welded by Locomotive Maintenance Services in Loughborough.

The cannon box halves are back at Darington, but require some more machining before being complete.

After this, the lines can then be machined to make sure they are the required fit for the cannon box in the frame.

2007's boiler has been delayed due to issues found during the overhaul of 60163 Tornado's boiler, but the Trust says the boiler should be delivered later this year.

Finally, work on the locomotive's tender has progressed with details for the frame being manufactured by I D Howitt.

The tender's axle boxes are at Darlington and CNC machining has been carried out on behalf of I D Howitt as their CNC lathe is out of commission at the moment.

Delivery of the tender frames have been postponed whilst the trust moves into their new home.

17th July 2023

European leasing company signs contract for 100 Germany built Alstom locomotives​

Alstom has signed a framework contract with the European rolling stock leasing company Akiem to supply 100 Traxx Universal multi-system (MS3) locomotives.

The agreement is worth up to 500 million euros, with the firm part of the order being for 65 locomotives.

With this agreement, Akiem is confirming its leadership in the European leasing market and its aim to contribute to the rail market's accelerating activities, with major investment between France and 12 other European countries.

Traxx multi-system locomotives feature optimised energy consumption and are suitable for both freight and passenger operations at a speed of up to 160 kilometres per hour through Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxemburg, Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia.

Some of the locomotives will also come with a diesel engine or battery-powered to enable last-mile operation ports, terminals, or industrial sites without requiring a shunting locomotive.

All locomotives will be fitted with the ATLAS signalling system, which is Alstom's solution for the European Train Control System (ETCS).

This system is suitable for most countries and lines, both in ETCS and legacy system operation, and superior two-out-of-three architecture.

The locomotives are scheduled for delivery between 2025 and 2028, with final assembly at Alstom's site in Kassel in Germany.

Kevin Cogo, Vice-President, Rolling Stock, Locomotives & Components, Alstom DACH, said: “We are very proud that Akiem extends their locomotive fleet with their biggest single order of Traxx locomotives for an important number of countries. Thanks to this agreement, both Akiem and Alstom will reinforce their strong position for locomotives in various corridors including their home market.”

Fabien Rochefort, CEO of Akiem added “Akiem is thrilled to place this new order with Alstom. We are constantly investing in our locomotive portfolio to serve our customers and develop new market positions. This stock investments will allow to offer new efficient and sustainable routes which will contribute to increase the modal shift towards rail in Europe.

“55 locomotives as part of this order will operate from France towards Europe in a context when no deliveries were experienced for the past decade. We are intending to contribute to the rejuvenation of rail Freight and intercity passenger transport in France and ease innovation and competition with the support of our maintenance and service teams.“

PCC Intermodel in Poland has recently taken delivery of four new Alstom Traxx 3 multisystem locomotives.

Earlier this year Alstom won an order for 15 Traxx locomotives from Railpool, another European leasing company.

18th July 2023


TRANSPORT FOR WALES

fflecsi Pembrokeshire expansion to launch this summer​

A new fflecsi bus zone that includes Tenby will be launched in time for the summer holidays by Transport for Wales and Pembrokeshire County Council.


A new fflecsi bus zone that includes Tenby will be launched in time for the summer holidays by Transport for Wales and Pembrokeshire County Council.

As well as covering the popular tourist destinations of Tenby and Saundersfoot, the new demand responsive transport zone will service inland communities as far as Pembroke and Pembroke Dock.

The zone will replace the current 360 and 361 fixed-line services between Tenby and Pembroke Dock, providing a more sustainable and usable service for communities without a regular bus service as well as linking with railway stations.

Pembrokeshire County Council has received £180,000 of grant funding from the Welsh Government Public Transport Improvement Fund to support the expansion.

The recently introduced Dale Peninsula zone will be expanded eastwards beyond Milford Haven, replacing the 308 fixed-line service covering Burton, Llangwm, Hook, Freystrop, Rosemarket and Merlin’s Bridge.

The first and last 308 journeys will remain to enable College Students and commuters to continue to travel without the need to book.

The current fflecsi zone has seen significant passenger growth since it replaced the 315 fixed-line service earlier this year.

A revised fflecsi Bwcabus zone will extend to cover Crymych, Llandissilio and Clynderwen, providing improved connections with the 430 fixed-line route between Cardigan and Narberth.

The Bwcabus area previously covering Hayscastle Cross, Castlemorris and Llangloffan will be served by the Northwest Pembrokeshire zone.

From Monday, 24th July the new fflesci zones will be available anytime between 7.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday. Booking opens from Wednesday, 19th July via the fflecsi app or by phoning 0300 234 0300.

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett said: “The awarding of grant funding to enable the expansion of fflecsi Pembrokeshire services is fantastic news for residents and visitors.

“The existing provision has proven to be very successful in opening up the service to a wider area and providing greater travel options for passengers.

“fflecsi will also enable travel via public transport on a Saturday which has not been available in many areas for some time.”

Lee Robinson, Development Director for Mid, North and Rural Wales at Transport for Wales, said: “fflecsi Pembrokeshire is a fantastic example of how demand responsive transport can transform transport opportunities for rural communities in Wales and I’m delighted to see the service expanding across the county.

“We’re committed to promoting sustainable tourism across Wales and the new zone between Saundersfoot and Pembroke Dock will allow visitors travelling to the area by rail to make their onward journeys using fflecsi.

“The recently introduced Dale Peninsula zone continues to see increased passenger growth and its expansion will allow more communities to benefit from greater connectivity to the wider bus and rail network.”

18th July 2023

Japan: Introducing the Luxurious SPACIA X Limited Express​

In a new service operated by Japan's Tobu Railway that began on July 15, 2023, travellers can indulge in an extraordinary and opulent experience from Tokyo to Nikko aboard the newly launched Hitachi N100 ‘SPACIA X' Limited Express.

This train has been designed primarily to provide unparalleled luxury and comfort, offering passengers a selection of six unique seat variations to suit their discerning tastes.

The new train's nickname, ‘SPACIA X,' signifies the evolution of the beloved Limited Express SPACIA, renowned as a synonym for seamless transportation to Japan's scenic Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen areas.

The service has initially introduced 12 new cars in two trains, with plans to add another 12 new cars in two trains.

Each train accommodates 212 seats and features six different formats for passengers, including the lavish Cockpit Suite, Cockpit Lounge, Compartment, and Premium Seat.

Moreover, passengers will have the opportunity to savour original craft beer and craft coffee developed in collaboration with local companies in Nikko.

Among the distinctive seating options is the Cockpit Suite, exuding an ambience reminiscent of a private jet.

This luxurious setting promises an indulgent and exclusive experience throughout the entire journey.

Alternatively, passengers can opt for the Cockpit Lounge, featuring a stylish café counter and a private room that surpasses the current SPACIA in terms of quality and comfort.

Hitachi has meticulously designed the train cars in-house, evolving while maintaining the iconic SPACIA form.

The colour scheme evokes a sense of nobility with its pure white shade, reminiscent of the “Gofun” paint adorning the Yomeimon Gate, Karamon Gate, and the main sanctuary of the esteemed Nikko Toshogu Shrine.

The window frames draw inspiration from the intricate and carefully handmade crafts such as the muntins (Kumiko) found in Kanuma and the bamboo weaving techniques passed down since the Edo period.

Embracing the concept of “Connect & Updatable ~ SPACIA X connects people, time and place ~,” the train strives to forge a personal and meaningful connection between each customer and the enchanting Nikko and Kinugawa regions.

By repeatedly igniting a desire to revisit this picturesque area, SPACIA X aims to provide a journey that not only exudes luxury but leaves a lasting impact.

The first car, the Cockpit Lounge, houses a café counter inspired by the renowned Nikko Kanaya Hotel and the distinguished embassy villas in Nikko.

The menu tantalises taste buds with unique and local dishes from Nikko, featuring signature craft beer from Nikko Brewing and locally sourced coffee from Nikko Coffee.

Additionally, passengers can delight in an array of original appetisers, sweets, and other delectable offerings.

The private compartments have been thoughtfully designed to ensure the utmost comfort and versatility.

Each compartment boasts a U-shaped sofa and an adjustable table, providing ample space for four individuals to enjoy various seating arrangements.

The table layout can be easily modified to suit the passengers' needs, composition, and mood, ensuring an optimal space for an unforgettable journey.

Beyond its dedication to luxury and comfort, the SPACIA X Limited Express is committed to positively impacting the environment.

Compared to the current Spacia trains, this new express train reduces CO2 emissions by up to 40%.

Additionally, the train operates on non-fossil fuel electricity supplied by the Tokyo Electric Power Company, resulting in virtually zero CO2 emissions.

The SPACIA X Limited Express actively contributes to realising the “International Eco-Resort Nikko” concept by embracing sustainable practices.

This extraordinary service connects the TOBU SKYTREE Line, Tobu Asakusa, Tobu Nikko, and the Kinugawa Onsen Line, promising a remarkable journey that redefines luxury travel.

18th July 2023

Škoda Group to supply traction motors for Australia’s new trams​

Škoda Group has entered a partnership with Alstom to supply traction motors to Alstom as part of its contract to supply trams to Melbourne in Australia.

Between next year and November 2028, Škoda Group will deliver 400 traction motors for 100 trams to Melbourne, with an option for a further 720 motors.

In total, the contract is worth €13 million.

This is the first time that Škoda has secured an order from Australia.

The traction motors that Škoda twill supply for Melbourne's trams are based its successful FCX range of motors.

These motors are designed to be mounted longitudinally, weigh 360kg, and have an output of 105kW that drives the tram axle via a two-speed gearbox.

Škoda traction drives are widely recognised with more than 50,000 in use around the world.

They have a compact design and feature optimised performance with outstanding mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties.

They represent the peak of Škoda's current research and development, with every part being tested during production to ensure the highest quality and long service life.

With Škoda's extensive range of traction drives, it can adapt a drive to the specific design requirements of any vehicle, enabling a tailor-made solution for a wide range of vehicles.

Petr Novotný, President of Components & Bus Mobility at Škoda Group, said, “With this prestigious contract, we have proven that we are constantly improving the quality of our products. It shows the trust our partners place in our group's technological expertise and manufacturing capabilities.

“Many vehicles around the world are running thanks to our traction drives. And I'm thrilled that we can bring our premium motors to Australia for the first time and contribute to the further development of one of the world's largest tram networks, which is located exactly in Melbourne.”

19th July 2023

International consortium wins contract for new Paris metro line​

An international consortium, the ORA consortium, consisting of RATP Dev, Alstom, and ComfortDelGro, has been awarded a contract by Île-de-France Mobilités (IdFM), which is the public transit authority of the Greater Paris region, to operate and maintain Line 15 South of the Grand Paris Express.

Line 15 is a central link in the Grand Paris Express, which aims to extend the Greater Paris region's public transit network with over 200 km of new automated metro lines, and when completed will form a 75 km line around Paris, linking 45 municipalities carrying over 1.5 million passengers every day.

Line 15 South forms part of the new line, and is 33km long with 16 stations serving 22 and is scheduled to start operations late 2025.

The contract is initially for six-year with an option to extend to nine years and includes operation of the trains, stations, and centralized control centre, together with maintenance of the rolling stock.

The consortium will also be responsible for the management of passenger relations and travel information systems.

RATP Dev operates urban and intercity transportation systems in all five continents, with expertise in the operation and maintenance of automated metros, and will coordinate all operation and maintenance activities in the contract.

ComfortDelGro has experience with the Singapore metro and will contribute its best practices and expertise in passenger experience, service standards, and team training.

Jean-Baptiste Eyméoud, President of Alstom France, said: ”This contract marks a new collaboration with the RATP group and we are delighted to be joining forces with RATP Dev and ComfortDelGro for this project.

“Alstom is proud to have the opportunity to bring to line 15 its latest innovations in digital and predictive maintenance, already deployed in Sydney, Dubai and Montreal. Combined with Alstom's international expertise in automated metros and transport system maintenance, they will guarantee passengers a reliable and efficient service.”

“Alstom is delighted to be joining forces with RATP Dev and ComfortDelGro to make the future Line 15 a benchmark in terms of performance. Our expertise in automated metros and in the maintenance of transport systems will guarantee passengers a reliable and efficient service.”

Hiba Farès, CEO of RATP Dev, said: “This extension of a historic public transit network will transform the daily lives of millions of residents in the inner and outer suburbs of Paris, and contribute to the efficient interconnection of several districts in the region.

“Alongside our partners, we will put RATP Dev's recognized expertise in the operation of automated metros at the service of Île-de-France Mobilités and the people of the Greater Paris region, providing a travel experience focused on service quality.”

ComfortDelGro's Managing Director and Group CEO, Cheng Siak Kian, said: “At ComfortDelGro, one of our key strengths lies in providing a delightful and inclusive commuting experience for our customers. We are therefore pleased to contribute our expertise in partnership with RATP Dev and Alstom to deliver a safe, reliable and caring commuting experience to the residents of the Île-de-France region.”

19th July 2023

Lumo looks to Hyperloop technology at the European Hyperloop Week festival​

The week-long international event is taking place in Edinburgh this year, focusing on the potential of the ultra-high-speed transport system​

The University of Edinburgh is hosting European Hyperloop Week and will see industry experts from across the world discuss both the technology and feasibility of the ultra-high-speed transport system.

The event will also see all-electric train operator Lumo attend alongside university students, guest speakers, businesses and Hyperloop enthusiasts.

Hyperloop was initially proposed by Elon Musk in 2012 and has since seen investment by Richard Branson for Virgin Trains with Hyperloop offering the potential to create a high-speed transportation system which will support both passengers and freight.

The innovative system is made up of partially evacuated tubes and passenger or freight pods, which travel at extremely high speeds.

Lumo is the newest rail operator in the UK and offers a popular green option for travel with its all-electric new fleet of trains.

The company aims to continue in its reimagining the future of rail travel and fittingly, saw managing director, Martijn Gilbert, given the honour of delivering a speech focused on moving forward with innovation and sustainability in rail travel.

Martijn said: “The exceptionally creative and innovative work of those taking part in European Hyperloop week is hugely inspirational and provides a healthy challenge as to what the future of transport will look like.”

“At Lumo we're continuing our journey to re-imagining rail and being involved in European Hyperloop Week is a great way to support the development of STEM skills, encourage innovation and technological development and fly the flag for the future of transport. We're delighted to be involved.”

The event will see University student teams from all over the world given a chance to show off their innovative prototypes to the rail industry and also to members of the public.

The event is open to Hyperloop enthusiasts and Edinburgh locals who wish to find out more about Hyperloop and will see talks and panel discussions by students, Hyperloop companies and representatives of the rail industry.

A ‘grand finale' will take place on Saturday the 22nd of July, which will see the prototypes tested on the university's track at King's Building.

Sunday the 23rd of July will also see a free public day!

19th July 2023

America’s North East Corridor set for $124m upgrade​

The national railroad passenger corporation has launched its initiative to advance the infrastructure of the Northeast Corridor​

Amtrack has revealed that it is upgrading the infrastructure of the Northeast Corridor in a bid to future-proof the railway.

The Northeast Corridor runs from Boston through to Washington D.C. covering a massive 457 miles using an electrified railroad line.

The programme of improvements work is set to get underway this summer as part of annual track improvement work and also a long-term commitment to ensure that the railway can perform at the highest level.

Once work is underway, there may be some disruption for customers however, the benefits created by the improvements will see greater reliability and better performance achieved, enhancing passenger experience.

Amtrak Executive Vice President, Capital Delivery Laura Mason said: “Updating railroad infrastructure is a fundamental component of our plan to deliver a new era of rail by modernizing the Amtrak fleet, building new bridges and tunnels, revitalizing stations and redefining the customer experience for the modern era,”

“We're grateful to our partners for their cooperation and flexibility as we advance these critical projects to achieve a state of good repair and enhance the overall Amtrak customer experience.”

Rail customers travelling with Amtrack on the Northeast Corridor over the summer up to the 30th of September may experience some minor delays in a number of locations in the New England and Mid-Atlantic Regions, due to the work.

Around $130 million has been invested in rail improvements by Amtrak, of which more than $124 million will be utilised during this summer period.

The funding has been made up via:

• Amtrak grants and other federal programs
• State and local contributions
• Amtrak revenue

The programme of work will see:

• The replacement of 40 track switches across New York and Mid-Atlantic regions
• The updating of 25 miles of track in the Mid-Atlantic Region
• Over one million feet of surfacing work completed across the entire Northeast Corridor for high-speed rail
• The adjustment of train schedules in order to accommodate the work and avoid conflicts with commuter agencies.

Each of the above-mentioned projects will see Amtrak engineers work through the night in a bid to create less disruption for passengers.

Customers travelling with Amtrak on the Northeast Corridor should note that during the warmer summer months, high temperatures can also affect the corporation's services.

Extreme heat creates issues for railways due to the expansion of rail, bridge and overhead wires.

Amtrak will action temporary heat restrictions if necessary in order to run the railway as safely as possible and may see some services running at lower speeds than usual.

19th July 2023

Health and Safety Report focusses on climate change and workers health​

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has issued its 2023 Health and Safety Report, which says that Network Rail must ensure it delivers the changes needed to address the risks of climate change, and together with the rest of the rail industry continue to improve managing the health of its workers.

According to the report, Network Rail has been formulating the action plans needed to improve the management of earthworks and drainage, following recommendations made after an accident at Carmont in 2020.

Although progress has been made, such as in improved weather forecasting, Network Rail still needs to do more to drive change across its regions.

While the regions are committed to maintaining inventories of their drainage, the work required to find ‘lost' drainage assets has been challenging.

In some cases, drainage inspections were not being carried out with sufficient rigour, and dedicated drainage inspection teams would ensure better quality and consistency.

Until now, a lack of staff has affected Network Rail's planning for drainage management, but it has assured the regulator that the infrastructure manager is committed to ensuring the drainage teams are fully resourced by the end of March 2024.

The regulator found that across three of the regions inspected, Vegetation Management Plans, which are the first step in effective vegetation control, were either absent or incomplete.

Network Rail has therefore been instructed to improve the management of vegetation on its buildings and structures,

Another key theme of the report is the industry's responsibilities for looking after its workforce, which in turn will support the drive for a safer railway.

However, during the past year, Network Rail has taken a number of positive steps, including improving the safety of track workers employed in lookout roles and those working on overhead lines.

A particular concern for the regulator was managing the fatigue of workers but was encouraged that Network Rail recognised its own fatigue controls needed improvement.

The regulator added that revised guidance would be issued to the sector that sets out its clear expectations and understanding of the law.

It was noted that Network Rail is moving forward in developing state-of-the-art occupational health services, and for the first time these will provide centralised services to all of the mainline railway.

However, the regulator affirmed that it is unacceptable for the industry to fail to provide adequate toilet facilities for staff, which is a legal requirement, and added that operators should allow shared access to their own facilities.

Ian Prosser, HM chief inspector of railways, said: “Financial challenges, changes to travelling and working patterns, weather extremes and industrial action have brought uncertainty to the rail industry, but Great Britain's railways consistently perform as one of the safest in Europe.

“To keep it in that position, the industry must redouble its efforts of managing its assets and the environment around them because of the threat of extreme and variable weather conditions on the network.

“A safe railway also relies on its workers to be at optimum performance, so it is of paramount importance that industry reduces fatigue levels.”