Intercity Express Programme
In November 2018, a consortium of Rock Rail, Dalmore Capital, Equitix Investment Management and Japan Infrastructure Initiative acquired a 30% stake in Agility Trains West (“ATW”) from Hitachi Rail Limited.
In April 2019, the same consortium acquired a further 15% share in the company.
Agility Trains West was established in 2012 to finance, own and maintain the first phase of the £5.7bn Government-led Intercity Express Programme (IEP), one of the UK’s most significant rail programmes. This consisted of 57 Hitachi class 800 electric diesel bi-mode trains to serve the Great Western main line, which were in service by December 2018.
Benefits
- Wi-Fi available throughout
- At seat plug sockets
- Air conditioning
- Environmentally efficient, faster trains with better braking
- Improved customer information system
- Reduced wear on the rail infrastructure
- Increased capacity into London Paddington