Search for supplier to build HS2 trains in £2.75bn contract launched

HS2 concept train

The search for a supplier to design, build and maintain a fleet of HS2 trains was launched on the 20 January by Transport Secretary Chris Grayling.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling officially launched the search to find a company to design, build and maintain advanced high speed trains for Britain’s HS2 network in a contract worth £2.75 billion.

Mr Grayling said: “Launching the hunt for a manufacturer of these trains is a major step towards Britain getting a new railway which will carry over 300,000 people a day, improve connections between our great cities, generate jobs, and helping us build an economy that works for all.

“Hundreds of jobs will be created in building and maintaining these trains, representing a great opportunity for British based businesses and suppliers.

“In total 25,000 jobs and 2,000 apprenticeships will be created during HS2 construction and we have held discussions with UK suppliers to make sure they are in the best possible position to win contracts.”

The Royal Assent for the Phase One hybrid Bill expected shortly allowing building work to start on the Birmingham to London section of HS2 in the spring, 2017

Contract to design, build and maintain up to 60 state-of-the-art HS2 trains

The contract includes the delivery of up to 60 state-of-the-art trains which can travel at speeds of around 225mph and provide services capable of seating more than 1,000 passengers. The trains will need to meet HS2’s design and performance needs and the highest standards internationally for passenger experience, noise reduction, and environmental sustainability, while maximising skills, employment and growth opportunities. The contract will be awarded in 2019.

Chris Rayner, HS2 Ltd Managing Director – Railway Operations, said: “We are looking for a supplier who is capable of delivering and maintaining some of the world’s most advanced rolling stock, with designs putting the passenger at their heart to ensure seamless, accessible, fast and reliable journeys.

“Starting from 2026, our trains will be used by tens of thousands of people every day, bringing the benefits of high speed rail not only to the core network, but also onward to places like Manchester, Glasgow, Liverpool, Preston and Wigan.”

The winning bidder will be required to maintain the fleet from the dedicated rolling stock depot planned for Washwood Heath in Birmingham. Furthermore, this site will also be the base for the HS2 Network Control Centre.

It is expected that future contracts will add to this fleet in order to provide trains for the second phase of the project in 2033.