Supporting the introduction of the Class 196 fleet of trains

In an effort to increase capacity on its routes, West Midlands Trains (WMT) embarked on a significant upgrade by introducing a new fleet of British Rail Class 196 Civity trains.

However, the project encountered some engineering challenges, requiring additional technical support to ensure successful implementation. To address these hurdles, WMT enlisted the expertise of Encompass Engineering.

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Background

West Midlands Trains (WMT) needed to increase capacity on some of its routes, so they introduced a new fleet of class 196 trains to replace some of their existing class 170 trains.

Due to engineering challenges, they needed additional engineering technical support for technical reviews to complete the project. They brought Encompass Engineering in to help.

British Rail Class 196 Civity is a class of diesel multiple units built for West Midlands Trains (WMT) by Spanish rolling stock manufacturer CAF. A total of 26 units have been built; 12 two-car units and 14 four-car units. They were introducing the trains to boost capacity on various routes.

The brief

During the purchase and implementation of the new fleet, WMT faced some technical and logistical challenges. WMT decided to engage an external company to help support. Our proven experience, particularly from our work on the Greater Anglia (GA) 720 project, led to a recommendation by the Engineering Director of Abellio, and Encompass Engineering was brought in to support with engineering reviews.

As we joined the project, WMT’s Project Engineer departed and was not replaced, so our role expanded significantly as we took on responsibilities critical to the project’s progress, working alongside the Joint Project Manager (JPM) to tackle the multitude of issues that arose and maintain project momentum.

As the project neared completion, a significant number of outstanding actions remained. We continued to assist WMT in holding CAF accountable, ensuring these actions were resolved before the final acceptance of the units.

The solution

Encompass Engineering stepped in to provide the necessary engineering support and expertise.

  • Engineering Expertise: Our team of expert engineers provided additional support to address complex technical issues, ensuring the project could overcome any technical challenges.
  • Project Management: We supplied Project Management expertise to ensure continued progress, including backfilling roles within WMT’s team when necessary.
  • Quality Inspections: Our specialist quality inspectors ensured units met stringent quality standards, providing peace of mind and confidence in the new fleet.
  • Engineering: We provided expert engineering reviews and solutions, addressing issues and keeping the project aligned with technical specifications.
  • Cyber Security (short-term): We initially handled cyber security needs to protect the project from digital threats.
  • Stakeholder Management: We facilitated communication and coordination among all parties involved, ensuring everyone was on the same page and working towards the same goals.
  • Planning and Pathing: We structured the project timeline and logistical arrangements, keeping the project on schedule and within scope.
  • Test Planning: We developed and organised the testing phases for the new fleet, ensuring thorough and efficient testing procedures.
  • Test Witnessing: We verified test procedures and outcomes to ensure compliance, making sure every step of the process met the required standards.

The result

Our ongoing support was pivotal in helping WMT navigate the complexities of acquiring the final units from the CAF 196 project. We ensured that all aspects of the project continued to progress smoothly, from technical evaluations to stakeholder communications.

Our team handled additional responsibilities and navigated various engineering challenges to keep the project on track.

Our partnership with WMT demonstrates our commitment to delivering tailored, expert solutions to meet the unique challenges of rail fleet projects.

Get in touch!

This project demonstrates how we can provide crucial support in complex rail projects, offering a combination of engineering expertise, project management and comprehensive support services.

Our work with WMT highlights our ability to step in, adapt, and deliver results, ensuring project success even in challenging circumstances.

If your rail company has similar challenges, Encompass can provide the expert support to see your project through to completion. Get in touch and find out how we can help your business achieve your goals.

Testimonials

Encompass Engineering has played a crucial role in our endeavours at West Midlands Trains, particularly during the implementation of our new Cl 196 fleet. Their unwavering support has proven invaluable, encompassing critical aspects such as technical assistance through modification reviews, testing witnessing, wayside engineering, and proficient project management to facilitate the integration of the units into passenger service. Their contribution has not only assisted us in overcoming challenges but has also significantly enhanced the depth of our capabilities when it mattered most.

— John Doughty, Engineering Director, West Midlands Trains

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