TPE accepts first ‘Nova 2’ CAF set

By Tony Miles

TRANSPENNINE Express accepted the first ‘Nova 2’ Class 397 EMU into its fleet on July 25, meaning units from all three new ‘Nova’ train types have now joined its fleet.

The first sets to be delivered are still being used for type testing, and require some final rectification work by manufacturer CAF, so set No. 397005 was the first to be accepted, with set 006 subsequently joining the fleet.

TPE ‘Nova 2’ set Nos. 397004 and 397003 run south through Lancaster on August 13 after successful completion of 120mph running with two pantographs raised. Three days later the same pair successfully completed 125mph test running as part of ORR certification and approval process ahead of acceptance for passenger operation. TONY MILES

This has enabled TPE to begin driver and crew training ahead of their introduction into service between Glasgow and both Liverpool and Manchester before the end of the year.

They have joined five Class 802 ‘Nova 1’ bi-mode units, which have been accepted by the TOC.