Brand-new electric tram trains have been revealed as a major milestone in the South Wales Metro project, aimed at transforming transportation across the South Wales Valleys. These state-of-the-art light rail vehicles are the first of their kind in Wales, capable of operating on both electric lines and battery power. Travelling at speeds of up to 100 km/h on rail and able to run on tram lines, these 40-meter long trains boast a capacity to accommodate up to 252 passengers.
Transport for Wales (TfW) has proudly presented these cutting-edge tram trains at the newly constructed £100 million Taff’s Well depot. The depot will serve as the central hub for the South Wales Metro, providing essential electrical controls and signalling for the network, along with a maintenance facility for the new tram trains.
In recent times, TfW has faced scrutiny over the escalating costs of the Metro project and the reliability of services, leading to the appearance of its CEO, James Price, before the Welsh Affairs Committee in Westminster. However, despite challenges, TfW remains committed to improving rail services in the region. The Taff’s Well control center is already operational, providing signalling support for trains on the Treherbert, Aberdare, and Merthyr railway lines.
Funded in part by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government, the transformation of the Core Valley Lines for the Metro will enhance connectivity between Cardiff and the heads of the valleys, enabling faster and more frequent services.
Karl Gilmore, rail infrastructure director at TfW, expressed the significant progress made at the Taff’s Well depot, highlighting the erected maintenance depot and control center buildings, as well as the laid railway tracks connecting the depot to the mainline. He added that the new tram trains are undergoing testing on the valley lines and will play a pivotal role in electrifying the upcoming phases of the project.
Alexia Course, the chief commercial officer, further elaborated on the Citylink Class 398 tram trains manufactured by Stadler. TfW has ordered 36 of these spacious three-car tram trains, which boast multifunctional areas for bicycles, seats for people with reduced mobility, and dedicated spaces for wheelchair passengers. These light rail vehicles are designed to connect urban centers with outlying regions, and TfW eagerly anticipates integrating them into the network in the coming months.
The introduction of these tram trains comes at a crucial time for Wales, which has historically struggled with inadequate rail infrastructure compared to other parts of the UK. The decision by the UK Government to treat HS2 as an England and Wales project, despite the absence of track in Wales, has further exacerbated this issue. However, the South Wales Metro project promises to be a game-changer, significantly improving transportation options and connectivity in the region.
As the £100 million Taff’s Well depot nears completion and the tram trains undergo testing, commuters and travelers alike eagerly await the prospect of enhanced travel experiences and improved accessibility across the South Wales Valleys.