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Avanti
West Coast to Holyhead , where we have historically used diesel trains . However , we recently procured a bi-mode fleet for that route , which has the capability to run in both diesel and electric mode . As a result of that , it does not use fuel when running on the electrified network , and therefore should significantly reduce emissions by an estimated two-thirds or more , making our operation even greener .
“ The second reason why this fleet is symbolically important is that we have procured ten additional electric trains that will enable us to grow the business , as we have a long-held aspiration , supported by stakeholders , to run two trains an hour
... we recognized that what was leadingedge technology 20 years ago is no longer considered so today
to Liverpool . At the moment , we only run one train an hour to Liverpool , which in comparison to Manchester and the West Midlands that enjoy three trains an hour , is not the same level of service . With the events that have happened on Merseyside in the last few years , namely Eurovision , which have significantly boosted the visitor economy , we want to support continued regional growth by running more train services . The first of these extra services started on 11th of November , and we are really looking forward to continuing to grow our business ,” Andy reveals .
BT continues to build a better connection with Avanti West Coast .
BT is proud to partner Avanti West Coast on continuing to deliver better connectivity along the West Coast Mainline ( WCML ). With the consent of the Department for Transport , our five-year strategic relationship has assessed the challenges of providing improved digital connectivity for their rail passengers , colleagues and industry partners .
The major infrastructure programme along the WCML commenced in 2020 , delivering new and upgraded cellular masts as well as increased mobile data availability . BT , powered by EE , deployed and upgraded 4G and 5G mobile network infrastructure along the Avanti West Coast routes . This activity involved a significant investment , with upgrades to 124 existing mast sites and the construction of 76 new ones that also benefits local communities .
While connecting to the internet on most trains is a straightforward process , the speed and reliability depend heavily on the mobile network ’ s signal strength . BT ’ s extensive infrastructure improvements maximise a strong and consistent signal , enriching the internet experience while also enabling Avanti West Coast ’ s implementation of future-focused technologies .
Beyond just passenger Wi-Fi , Avanti West Coast has sought to leverage the improved EE connectivity for new seat reservations systems , intuitive seat occupancy sensors , passenger counting , remote accessed CCTV and realtime passenger information displays .
Train operations have also advanced . Avanti West Coast has experienced improvements in sharing information with Network Rail , British Transport Police and the Rail Safety Standards Board . This activity includes quicker diagnosing of train issues , remotely accessing on-board CCTV and video imaging for track inspection .
Andy Mellors , Managing Director at Avanti West Coast said : “ The West Coast Mainline is one of our country ’ s most important railway routes , connecting major cities and economic hubs together . We know through our own research that customers want better mobile connectivity , which is why we are pleased to partner with BT to ensure that we can provide improved coverage across our routes .”
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