New trains heading for Devon and Cornwall

GWR to replace older diesels

Devon and Cornwall are to get new trains on the Great Western Railway (GWR) fleet.

The operator says the 26 Class 175 trains will improve punctuality and reliability, replacing older diesel trains that are more expensive and less environmentally friendly.  

The 10 two-car trains and 16 three-car trains are expected to start to enter service this year, with the entire fleet expected to be operational from the end of next year.

Its part of plans to rejuvenate its regional and suburban services while preparing the way for decarbonisation. 

Able to connect in four, five and six-car formations, the trains will operate predominantly on the line between Exeter St Davids and Penzance, as well as to Barnstaple and Okehampton. 

They will lead to the removal of some of the oldest and least efficient trains, which have become more expensive to maintain as spare parts become more difficult to find  

GWR managing director Mark Hopwood said:   “The benefits of these trains will be felt by customers across the whole of the GWR network. With more trains we will have more scope to increase resilience where it is needed most, delivering the reliability our communities deserve and need.

“They are a fantastic addition to our fleet and will provide a welcome boost as we seek to rejuvenate our regional and suburban services.

Chair of the Peninsula Rail Taskforce, Councillor Andrea Davis, said:

“Rail services are a big part of our climate change and economic development offer, and we have been campaigning for extra rolling stock for some time."