TransPennine Express is looking for expressions of interest from suppliers for a fleet of at least 15 bi-mode locomotives for use on with its Mk5 carriages. The provision released by First Group is for up to 30 bi-mode locomotives, with an additional 5 for use on Great Western Railway’s Sleeper Service.
The operators say that the new locomotives must have the capability to be powered by overhead wires as well as being able to operate with an alternate traction mode, IE Diesel or Battery, where routes are not yet electrified or for use as a contingency. In the supporting information for the EOIs, TransPennine Express says that any engine must meet at least Euro V compliance and must meet all NTSN standards in relation to noise. TPE also says that the locomotives must be able to travel at up to 100mph.
TransPennine Express wants to use the new bi-mode locomotives with its current CAF MK5A carriages and must be modified for use with the control systems for Automatic Selective Door Operation (ASDO) as well as other controls and passenger information systems (PIS).