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New electric ‘tri-mode’ trains are being introduced to passengers for the first time in the UK as part of the South Wales Metro project.

The new trains are on the tracks from Monday November 18, and are being rolled out along the Merthyr and Aberdare lines.

However, they’re not due to hit the Rhymney line until late next year.

The new trains will be phased in across the core valley lines, replacing Transport for Wales’ (TfW) older trains.

TfW has already introduced 65 brand-new trains and seven premier class MK4 trains to the Wales and Borders network over the last two years, as part of an £800 million investment into new trains.

Built by Swiss manufacturer Stadler, the new Class 756 Fast Light Intercity and Regional Trains (FLIRTs) will be powered by the recently installed overhead electrified wires.

These transformative ‘tri-mode’ trains are the first in the UK that can use diesel or battery on sections of railway track where there are no overhead wires.

Wales’ transport secretary, Ken Skates, described the introduction as a “historic moment” and said: “These state-of-the-art electric trains with greater capacity will make passengers’ journeys more comfortable.

“With the addition of the latest technology allowing for Wi-Fi and up to the minute travel information screens, [the new trains] are sure to encourage more people to use the train for their travel needs.”

TfW’s CEO, James Price, said: “This is a huge moment for TfW and Wales, as we’re the first in the UK to be introducing this modern ‘tri-mode’ train into passenger service.

“Our teams and delivery partners have been working on transforming our rail infrastructure in South Wales for the last three years and this signifies the next phase of the South Wales Metro.

“We’ve been modernising and electrifying the railway line and we are now extremely proud to be able to introduce the first of our brand-new trains that will be powered by electricity.”

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