German engineering firm Siemens has unveiled a full-sized train prototype featuring a smaller-profile body for the London Underground.
The prototype, which is built on the company’s existing Inspiro family, features air-conditioning, wide gangways, smaller-profile body, and an option for fully-automated operation. It is expected to cost £1m per carriage.
Designed to run automatically without the support of a driver, the train will feature LED lighting, onboard tanks with a phase-changing polymer. It is 30% more energy-efficient and 20% lighter than similar trains worldwide.
Siemens Rail Systems UK managing director Steve Scrimshaw was quoted as saying that London, in common with many large cities around the world, faces significant transport challenges as a result of ongoing population growth and increased capacity demands.
Siemens will submit the prototype to London Underground upon invitation to tender.
The prototype will be on display at The Crystal in London’s Royal Victoria Docks between 8 October 2013 and 8 January 2014.
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