The first test train for TransPennine Express’s Nova 1 fleet being shipped to the UK. Credit: Hitachi Rail Europe Ltd.

Hitachi has shipped the first test train for TransPennine Express’s Nova 1 fleet from its Japanese facility to the UK.

Under a contract signed in March 2016 with First Group and Angel Trains, Hitachi is scheduled to deliver 19 such new five-carriage trains to the UK.

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The new trains are expected to enter service next year supporting connectivity between major cities in the north of England and Scotland, from Liverpool and Manchester to Newcastle and Edinburgh.

“We are excited to bring Japanese bullet train technology to the north and look forward to our fleet transforming journeys on this busy route.”

The train, shipped from Japan, is expected to reach the UK in two months, after which it will undergo testing across the north later this year.

Hitachi Rail Europe projects director Berry Sas said: “We are excited to bring Japanese bullet train technology to the north and look forward to our fleet transforming journeys on this busy route.

“Our decision to use British businesses to supply parts for the new trains is a multi-million pound boost to the economy, supporting jobs at production sites around the country.”

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Each of these trains has additional legroom, luggage space and 161 more seats compared to the existing trains on the route.

They are equipped with Wi-Fi and an on-board entertainment system called Exstream to allow the passengers to watch films and television during their journey.

All the trains will be equipped with hybrid technology to enable them to run on electric and diesel power.

Furthermore, modern MTU engines from Rolls-Royce will be installed in these trains to reduce emissions by up to 90% while running on diesel power.

The trains are capable of operating at a maximum speed of 140mph in electric mode and 125mph using diesel engines.

The first three trainsets will be built in Japan, while the remaining units under the order will be developed in Europe.