Procurement's Role in Northern Rail Fleet Investment
Northern Rail is moving closer to its largest ever fleet investment, which could eventually result in the acquisition of up to 450 new trains.
The operator, which is publicly owned, has invited major manufacturers to begin negotiations to supply new trains to operate across northern England.
Replacing the fleet
Northern Rail's new trains, set to be introduced on a phased basis, will replace the oldest units in its existing fleet – with the majority having been in service since either the 1980s or '90s. It's hoped around two-thirds of the existing fleet will be replaced in the next ten years.
With a mix of electric and multi-modal-powered (diesel/electric) trains, prospective manufacturers have been asked to include battery-powered trains as part of their proposals.
The units of a multi-modal description will have the capability of conversion to battery or electric-only operation during their lifetime, in line with the government's commitment to deliver a cleaner, greener railway as part of its net-zero objectives.
The reduction of different train types will significantly simplify operations, aiding in staff training and leading to lower maintenance costs – helping to reduce the taxpayer subsidy.
Tricia Williams, Managing Director of Northern, says: "Almost 60% of the trains in our fleet are between 32 and 40 years old and, while they've served the region well, it's important we get the ball rolling on their replacement.
"It's game-changing for Northern and will transform the look and feel of our fleet for millions of customers – and it also cements electric and battery as the long-term power source of choice for our fleet."
Great news for the rail manufacturing industry
Contracts will likely be awarded to the successful bidder or bidders in 2026, with a goal of the first trains being delivered to Northern by 2030.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy adds: "This vital fleet upgrade will create smoother journeys and help Northern provide the services their passengers deserve. It's also great news for our rail manufacturing industry and demonstrates that the pipeline for orders is strong."
Phase one of the project will first replace the train operator's ageing Class 150, 155 and 156 trains. It also includes 12 electric, three-carriage trains to operate the local stopping services between York, Leeds, Huddersfield and Manchester following the electrification of the route through the Transpennine Route Upgrade.
Future phases will replace the next oldest fleets as more new trains come off the production line.
Net zero by 2050
Designed to meet the needs of customers of today and tomorrow, the newest fleet will incorporate and benefit from the very latest technology, bringing with it higher levels of comfort, reliability and overall satisfaction.
The removal of diesel trains from service over time will demonstrably improve both local air and noise quality – particularly in locations where this has been raised as a concern.
Tricia continues: "The new trains will support the government's commitment to achieving net zero operations by 2050 whilst reflecting the reality that only 25% of the Northern network is currently electrified."
The procurement process
Train manufacturers approached as part of this first 'Invitation to Negotiate' step in the procurement process are Alstom, CAF, Hitachi, Siemens and Stadler.
The timescales for the introduction of the trains will be developed during process. However, Northern has set bidders challenging targets to deliver as soon as possible.
Northern is the second-largest train operator in the UK, with 2,500 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.
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