DB Systemtechnik win contract to test Scotrail's Hitachi AT200 vehicles

The success of the IEP testing and commissioning programme that DB Systemtechnik is undertaking for Hitachi Rail Europe has led to a new contract for the testing of the AT200 vehicles for ScotRail.

DB Sytemtechnik, the largest railway consultancy in Europe, is pleased to be able to announce that it has received a new order from Hitachi Rail Europe for the testing and commissioning of the AT200 (Class 385) Abellio ScotRail vehicles.

Hitachi is delivering 70 electric multiple units for ScotRail, including 46 3-car units and 24 4-car units. Passenger services are expected to start in autumn 2017, with all the units in operation by the end of 2018. The testing programme will be carried out in Scotland and at the Velim test centre in the Czech Republic. DB Systemtechnik will be responsible for undertaking the dynamic stability and ride comfort testing, together with internal as well as external noise, pressure measurement and traction performance tests.

DB Systemtechnik will also install additional measuring equipment at Velim to perform regenerative brake and wheel slide protection testing at speeds up to 160 km/h with a 4- and a 3-car unit.

Commenting on this contract, Andy Radford, Project Manager, Hitachi Rail Europe said: “Our new trains for Scotland will see faster, longer and greener services that improve passengers’ journeys from autumn 2017. We know there is huge demand for new trains so we’re delivering the programme for our customers quickly. It has been just 10 months from signing the contract, to building the first trains and now testing, which is really fast. Having DB Sytemtechnik on board will help us keep up this pace of work.”

Christoph Kirschinger, General Manager Sales from DB Systemtechnik said: “Our partnership with Hitachi is working very well and this new order demonstrates their faith in our ability to deliver on our commitments. We have successfully run similar testing programmes across Europe and we are experienced in meeting very tight delivery schedules. We look forward to the additional challenges that this new agreement will bring.”

Dr. Lars Müller, Head of Testing from DB Systemtechnik added: “Due to the IEP Project and further contracts with Hitachi, DB Systemtechnik will be fully utilising and increasing the homologation expertise and capability of their Derby team at ESG Rail, serving the UK and German markets."