How Will HS2 Classic Compatible Trains Be Tested?
As there has been some scare stories on this, I thought I had better ask Google AI for a second opinion.
This was the reply I received.
HS2 classic compatible trains (Class 895) will undergo rigorous, phased testing starting in 2027, including static checks in climate chambers and low-speed facilities, followed by dynamic testing on a 50-mile section of the new HS2 line. These tests, conducted at up to 360 km/h (225 mph), ensure compatibility with new high-speed infrastructure and existing network interfaces.
Key Testing Stages & Locations:
Static Testing: Initial tests conducted at production sites in Derby, involving climate chambers to test systems in extreme temperatures and at low-speed test tracks.
Dynamic Testing (Mainline): High-speed tests will occur on a ~50-mile (~80 km) section of the new high-speed line between Washwood Heath in Birmingham and the north portal of the Wendover green tunnel, focusing on braking, power, and signalling systems.
Infrastructure Compatibility: Testing includes extensive checks at the Rail Innovation & Development Centres (RIDC) and validation of the train-track interface, especially for “good vehicle-track interaction”.
International Testing: Specialized tests, such as those at the Velim test centre in the Czech Republic, will be utilized.
Existing Network Testing: Because these trains must run on the existing West Coast Main Line (WCML), they will be tested for interoperability on traditional tracks.
Focus Areas:
Performance: Validating that trains can handle speeds of 360 km/h and high acceleration.
Integration: Testing of signaling, power, and communication systems together.
Safety: Verification of braking systems and emergency systems.
Accessibility & Design: Physical mock-ups have been used for user group testing regarding cabin layout.
These tests are critical as the Class 895 trains are a joint project between Hitachi and Alstom, designed to run both on new high-speed lines and older, conventional lines (Classic Compatible).
These are some of my observations.
Where Is The North Portal Of The Wendover Green Tunnel?
This Google Map shows its location.
It would appear that North Portal of the Wendover Green Tunnel, is conveniently close to Wendover station.
This OpenRailway Map gives a larger view.
Note.
- HS2 is shown as dotted red tracks.
- Chiltern is shown in yellow.
- Wendover station is indicated by a blue arrow.
I suspect the portal is near the top of the map.
But looking at the roads and the station, it could be an interesting place to get close to HS2 infrastructure and trains under test.
The Anonymous Widower 