In connection with the Committee’s inquiry into Trains fit for the
Future?, MPs will visit three companies in Derby
working on future train technology: Bombardier, Porterbrook and
Loram.
In the past few years, the Government has insisted that the
future of rolling stock is likely to be hydrogen and
battery-powered, potentially in some form of ‘hybrid’ formation
with a traditional power source. In February 2018, the
Government pledged to remove diesel-only trains from the rail
network by 2040.
The Committee’s inquiry into the trains of the future will
examine the costs and benefits to the rail industry as it takes
decisions about moving away from diesel powered trains to
electric and bi-mode and the use of alternative fuels such
as batteries and hydrogen. Potential passenger benefits will be a
priority as work has already begun on carriages which must meet
the changing needs of the travelling public.
During Thursday’s visit, MPs are keen to understand more about
some of the alternative fuel projects that the UK rail industry
is currently leading on and to understand more about their
potential future applications.
The Committee’s Chair, MP, will be joined by
MP, MP and MP.
commented:
“We are very much aware of the need to plan for a future which
ensures better air quality for everyone and eliminates carbon
emissions. The transport industry has clear responsibilities in
both areas and the rail industry must lead the way by thinking
innovatively, investing wisely and putting people first. Derby
has been a key location for the manufacture of transport
equipment for more than a century. We’re looking forward to
visiting Loram, Porterbrook and Bombardier and hearing how their
work is leading the field for the UK in this area.”
