THIS artist impression could define the look of future trains being built for the new Thameslink network.

They have been released by engineering consultancy Interfleet Technology, which is working with the Department for Transport to develop technical specifications for what will be a ‘new generation’ train fleet of 1,200 new coaches.

The electric trains, which are designed to expand passenger capacity on the route, will run on the expanded Thameslink network created by a £5.5 billion infrastructure project currently under way by Network Rail.

Working in partnership with Arup, Interfleet Technology has provided the DfT with technical and business case advice on procurement of the trains and associated maintenance facilities.

The infrastructure investment programme will allow up to 24 longer trains an hour to run in each direction through central London, link the East Coast main line with St Pancras Thameslink and expand the existing network south of London to provide additional routes and journey opportunities from Bedford, Peterborough and Cambridge to destinations in Kent, Surrey and Sussex.

An Invitation to Tender for building the new trains, their lease package and through-life maintenance was launched last November.

The planned frequency calls for high performance and short station dwell times, while the Department for Transport’s technical strategy requires the new trains to be energy efficient, with reduced impact on infrastructure.

These requirements have been central to Interfleet Technology’s development of specification for the brand new vehicles.

Interfleet’s UK regional director Jonathan Wragg said: “We have been able to assist the DfT with a number of work packages, including preparation of a high-level rolling stock specification and detail-ed work to develop a performance specification.

“We have also carried out detailed work with the DfT’s commercial, legal and corporate finance teams to finalise the draft contacts which accompany the ITT, and have been retained to support the tender evaluation and contract negotiation process.”