First electric train from Glasgow to Barrhead will run from next month
It's the latest route to be electrified as part of plans to decarbonise Scotland's railway.
Last updated 23rd Nov 2023
The first electric train on the route from Glasgow Central to Barrhead will be up and running from next month.
The completion proved that the overhead equipment was operating efficiently.
The announcement comes after Network Rail Scotland revealed yesterday the launch of its first electric train test run was a success, with the train reaching speeds of up to 75 miles per hour.
The passenger train was tested on the recently electrified lines between Glasgow Central and Barrhead station.
Its journey between the two locations was recorded on Wednesday, November 7 through the night into the Thursday morning, and was the first of several runs which will be tested over the next month.
The Class 380 trains are being put to the test to ensure they’ll run smoothly ahead of Scotrail launching its electric passenger services to the public.
Travellers heading from Glasgow to Barrhead will be able to board the new trains from December, 10 onwards.
David Ross, ScotRail’s Communications Director, says the development means “more comfortable, green journeys for our passengers.”
Network Rail says the test run marks a huge milestone for everyone involved in the £63.3m project.
The development, which started two years ago, saw the installation of 66,000 metres of overhead power lines and the renovation of 130 metres of track.
Bridges along the route have also been reconstructed to clear areas for the new overhead lines.
Barrhead station has had a substantial transformation in preparation of the switch to an electric line, with one of its platforms extended by nine metres to allow for passengers to board the longer, four-carriage trains.
The electrification of the Glasgow-Barrhead line is part of the Scottish government’s plan for a greener railway system across Scotland.
The changes will reduce noise and air pollution for those living nearby the railway tracks and encourage more people to travel by train, rather than drive.
Paul Reilly, Network Rail’s senior programme manager, said: “Electric trains are lighter, cleaner and quieter than their diesel equivalents and cause less wear and tear to the track.
“More reliable, greener trains are better for our customers and environment – helping Scotland’s Railway deliver our contribution to a low carbon economy.”