►►A possible future “face” for London Tube trains: The Inspiro design is aimed at “small profile” Tube lines, including the Piccadilly and Bakerloo◀◀

A possible design for “small profile” Tube lines is on show at the Going Underground exhibition in London Docklands. The Inspiro has been designed by Siemens with walk-through gangways and air conditioning, and could be operated without a driver.

The trains would use the same traction equipment as the new Warsaw metro trains, but would feature a smaller body for London.
Railway Gazette International has been told by Siemens that it would be up to Transport for London to decide what level of automation would be required.

Siemens could supply trains suitable for manual driving, automated operation with a driver in the cab, automated operation with no cab but with a member of staff onboard, or unattended automatic operation.

Siemens said it anticipates that invitations to tender for the Piccadilly line fleet will be issued next year, with the Bakerloo line to follow.

Housed in a temporary station building, the exhibition shows how technology can help passengers with better information and ticketing systems.

The Going Underground exhibition is free to enter and takes place at The Crystal, Royal Victoria Docks, 1 Siemens Brothers Way, London E16 1GB from 8 October 2013 to 8 January 2014. 10.00 to 17.00. (19.00 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays).
Nearest station: Royal Victoria (DLR).


“Our exhibition highlights some of the innovations that can be considered by cities to help their metro systems help passengers benefit from an improved travel experience,” said Steve Scrimshaw of Siemens.

Sam Mullins, London Transport Museum director, added: “Over this last year the London Transport Museum, with Siemens and CBSO, has been exploring the fascinating history of underground train travel, which began 150 years ago in London. Underground railways are now a feature of many of the world’s major cities.”

Information from Siemens

The Crystal