East Midlands MEP Rupert Matthews visited Derby-based train manufacturer Bombardier Transportation (BT) this week to take a behind the scenes look round their production line. BT is the only company present in the UK that designs, builds, tests and maintains trains – including for export.
Whilst there Rupert looked round the production of the new trains for Crossrail and heard about the 2,500 AVENTRA vehicles which are currently being built or are on order.
Following the tour, Rupert commented:
“I found my visit incredibly interesting and I was fascinated to hear about the company. I was amazed to hear that Bombardier has supplied over 60% of the current train fleet in the UK.
“I was even privileged to sit in the driving seat of a train which will travel on the new Elizabeth Line in London.
“I wish Bombardier luck with their joint bid for the Deep Tube contract as well as the bid to supply and the trains for the first phase of HS2.”
“I would like to thank the team for taking the time to show me round and I look forward to hearing further exciting developments in 2018.”