How British will Britain’s new trains be?

Bombardier’s loss of the Thameslink order to Siemens was viewed as a critical blow to train building in the UK.

Similarly, Hitachi’s IEP success provided more ammunition for those who felt that ministers were missing clear opportunities to revitalise a manufacturing sector that is well past its prime.

But both Hitachi and Siemens have now responded to these criticisms and shown that Britain will benefit from their trains.

Infographics (see below) have been put together for both the Thameslink Desiro and the Hitachi Super Express, showing how manufacturers from all over the UK will contribute parts for the new passenger vehicles.

Big winners include Somerset firm Brecknell Willis will manufacture the pantographs for both trains and BMAC in Greater Manchester which will supply for the exterior lighting for all 230 new trains.

Hitachi’s may not even be complete yet, with further contracts still to be negotiated.








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