Alstom Completes £25 Million Refurbishment of Class 458 Fleet

Alstom has completed a £25 million refurbishment of the Class 458 fleet for South Western Railway. This upgrade enhances passenger comfort, accessibility, and train performance with cutting-edge engineering solutions. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Alstom Completes £25 Million Refurbishment of Class 458 Fleet

Alstom has successfully finished a £25 million upgrade of the Class 458 fleet for South Western Railway. This project aims to provide enhanced comfort and a modernized travel experience for passengers.

Alstom’s Modernization Efforts Deliver Enhanced Passenger Comfort

The project includes refurbishing 28 four-car units, completed at the Alstom Transport Technology Centre in Widnes. Each train now offers 234 seats in a two-by-two configuration with tables, charging points, and wireless charging capabilities at select locations. The upgraded interiors include new carpets and improved accessibility features, such as spaces for two wheelchair users in every unit.

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Alstom also reconfigured train systems to enable faster acceleration and increased the fleet’s maximum speed from 75 mph to 100 mph. Powered wheelsets were overhauled at Alstom’s Crewe Works, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainable and innovative engineering practices.

Alstom’s Commitment to Sustainability and Engineering Excellence

Peter Broadley, Managing Director for Services UK and Ireland at Alstom, highlighted the importance of this project in enhancing passenger experiences. “This refurbishment underscores Alstom’s dedication to delivering smarter, sustainable solutions while showcasing British engineering expertise,” he said.

The refurbishment’s successful completion was marked by a celebratory event at Widnes on December 12. The final unit, 458414, is set to enter service in spring 2024, strengthening capacity across South Western Railway’s suburban network.

A Collaborative Effort Driving British Rail Modernization

This project also highlights Alstom’s partnership with Porterbrook and South Western Railway. Porterbrook financed the £25 million investment, with over 80% of the budget benefiting UK suppliers. Nearly 70 jobs were supported at Alstom’s Widnes and Crewe facilities, further demonstrating the positive economic impact.

Originally built between 1998 and 2002, the Class 458 units have been integral to South Western Railway’s services for 25 years. Their refurbishment ensures they meet evolving passenger needs, particularly after shifts in travel patterns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alstom’s Widnes site, the UK’s largest train modernization center, played a key role in completing this complex project. Its Crewe facility, known for bogie and traction motor overhauls, supported essential engineering upgrades.

Source: railuk.com

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