The 25kV OTMs will allow real-time monitoring of energy consumption on the trains, meaning operators will be charged for actual current usage instead of modelled power consumption. Hitachi says the system will also allow the operator to understand where and when energy is consumed, provide evaluation of regenerative braking performance, and optimise the performance of onboard systems such as lighting and air-conditioning.

The OTM will be compliant with Railway Group Standard GM/RT2132 and European Standard EN 50463 (railway applications – energy management on board trains).

Hitachi is expected to deliver a total of 596 Super Express Train (SET) vehicles, which will replace most of the 200km/h High Speed Trains (HSTs) used on the Great Western Main Line (phase 1) and East Coast Main Line (phase 2). Financial close was reached last year on the initial phase, which comprises 21 nine-car electric trains and 36 five-car bi-mode trains for the Great Western franchise (369 vehicles). The second phase contract, which is still to be concluded, will include 12 five-car electric trains, 10 five-car bi-mode trains, and 13 nine-car bi-mode trains for the East Coast franchise (227 vehicles).