Hitachi named as preferred manufacturer to build high-speed trains in the UK

The Department of Transport has selected Hitachi as the preferred manufacturer to build and maintain new railway vehicles (about 180 cars for 30 trains) for the CTRL line (Channel Tunnel Rail Link).

The CTRL line began partial operation in September 2003, and is due to be completed between St Pancras and Ashford in 2007 as the first high-speed railway in the UK. The trains will connect the Kent area with St Pancras station in London as the CTRL Domestic service aims to upgrade its commuting service. The high-speed train is planned to consist of six cars for one train, which is made of aluminium and runs at 225km/h.

The train combines technical innovation with safety, comfort and reliability. Advanced technology such as FSW (Friction Stir Welding) will be used.

The Embassy of Japan in the UK welcomes the decision for Hitachi to be provided with the right, which is based on high-quality advanced and reliable Japanese railway technology. This project is expected to further Japan-UK cooperation in the railway sector.

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