Alstom’s GBP 75M GWR Class 175 Train Support

Introduction

Alstom has been awarded an eight-year contract valued at GBP 75 million (EUR 90 million) to provide technical support and spares for the reintroduction of 26 Class 175 trains into Great Western Railway’s (GWR) fleet. The agreement aims to enhance services across South West England, with the maintenance support to be delivered from GWR’s Laira depot in Plymouth.

Contract Overview

The Technical Support and Spares Supply Agreement (TSSSA) between Alstom and Great Western Railway (GWR) is an eight-year contract. The agreement, valued at GBP 75 million (EUR 90 million), will facilitate the reintroduction of 26 Class 175 trains. The contract is set to sustain more than 15 roles, including engineers, planners, and administrators, and will also affect positions within Alstom’s wider supply chain.

Fleet Deployment and Operation

The Class 175 diesel multiple units (DMUs), owned by Angel Trains, are scheduled to enter service later this year following recommissioning and driver training. These trains will primarily serve regional routes, including Exeter St Davids, Penzance, Barnstaple, and Okehampton. The Class 175 trains, built between 1999 and 2001 at Alstom’s Birmingham facility, previously operated with Transport for Wales before being returned off-lease in 2024. The trains can operate in four, five, or six-car formations.

Strategic Benefits and Goals

GWR signed the agreement to lease the trains earlier this year as part of a broader investment in fleet renewal. The introduction of the Class 175 fleet will allow GWR to retire some of its older diesel units, thus improving performance, passenger comfort, and operational efficiency. This move supports GWR’s long-term plans for decarbonization.

Technology Integration

The Class 175s will be the first GWR fleet to incorporate Alstom’s HealthHub digital solution. This technology captures and transmits data every 30 seconds across more than 200 parameters, including speed, interior temperature, and GPS location, enabling condition-based and predictive maintenance.

Conclusion

Alstom has secured a contract with Great Western Railway (GWR) to provide technical support and spares for the reintroduction of Class 175 trains. This initiative, supported by Angel Trains, aims to improve services across South West England by increasing capacity and reliability.

Company Summary

Alstom: The original manufacturer and maintainer of the Class 175 trains, providing technical support and spares under an eight-year contract with GWR.

Great Western Railway (GWR): The operator of the Class 175 trains, leasing the fleet from Angel Trains and aiming to improve regional and suburban services.

Angel Trains: The owner of the Class 175 fleet, collaborating with GWR and Alstom to improve passenger experience through the reintroduction of the trains.