Alstom unveils XTrapolis, a new generation commuter
train for the UK

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At the heart of the train architecture is Bogie Offset
Articulation which reduces the number of bogies by up to 30%,
allowing the carriages to be shorter and wider and thus
optimize the vehicle gauge. This in turn creates more passenger
space and comfort. A wide, uninterrupted aisle and spacious
gangways are created throughout the train, improving the
feeling of security for passengers as well as mobility.

Safety onboard is increased as the energy absorption areas are
concentrated in the elongated front end of the train rather
than between carriages, making these areas safer for passengers
and crew.

The door configuration is geared to reduce stopping times at
stations by making the boarding and alighting process more
efficient, particularly on high-density routes. Two sets of
double doors are situated in the centre of each carriage,
providing 25% more doors than a conventional trainset, per
equivalent length. The shorter carriages of X`Trapolis are also
closer to platform edges, especially when these are curved,
reducing the stepping distance from train to platform by almost
half.

Passenger information systems help the passenger make informed
decisions, with exterior displays indicating the capacity
status of each carriage to facilitate boarding and interior
displays providing updates on connecting services at stations.

95% recyclable, X’Trapolis for the UK is designed to
respect the environment. Thanks to the reduced number of
bogies, it is also 28% lighter than existing electric commuter
trains on the UK network. The lighter weight, combined with
regenerative braking, an aerodynamic design, intelligent energy
management and efficient lighting enable X`Trapolis to make an
energy saving of up to 50%. In addition, the train creates less
noise both externally and internally, thanks to the reduced
number of bogies and axles in contact with the track.

Maintenance is made easier thanks to the reduced number of
bogies, a major part of train maintenance, as well as the use
of Alstom’s on board diagnostic system, TrainTracer, and
in-house spare parts and traction engineering capability in the
UK.

Roland Kientz, Alstom Transport Senior Vice
President North Europe, said:

“
The development of X’Trapolis is evidence of
Alstom’s commitment to the UK rail industry. It
incorporates the best of the technologies already deployed on
our fleets and I am convinced that the combination of
technology, service provider experience and the motivation of
our teams will bring outstanding benefits to UK operators and
their passengers"


Paul Robinson, Alstom Transport MD, UK and
Ireland, added:

"We believe the time is right to introduce X`Trapolis to
the UK. We are drawing on Alstom`s global strengths to offer a
new approach to commuter travel”.