British Rail Class 197


The Class 197 Civity is a class of diesel multiple unit passenger train which will be built for Transport for Wales by Spanish rolling stock manufacturer CAF. A total of 77 units are to be built, comprising 51 two-car units and 26 three-car units. These trains will look almost identical to the Class 196 units that are being built for West Midlands Trains, with the differences being vehicle formation in some units, and both livery and some interior fittings in all units.

History

The current Wales & Borders rail franchise, operated by KeolisAmey, commenced on 14 October 2018. During the franchise period, the operator will oversee a full fleet replacement, with a batch of 77 brand new diesel multiple units assembled in CAF’s factory in Newport set to join the fleet between 2021 and 2023. The first Class 197 Driving Motor carriage vehicle bodyshell was assembled, welded and painted in Spain by 12 February 2020; the bodyshells will be shipped to Newport for fitment of all components.

Operators

Transport for Wales

When built, Transport for Wales' Class 197 fleet will replace and units which operate regional routes between Wales and England, as well as services on the Cambrian and Conwy Valley lines. At least 20 of the units will be fitted with ETCS signalling equipment to enable them to operate on the Cambrian lines; since late 2010, only ETCS-fitted trains can operate over the route.

Fleet details