Brand new trains built in Newport have been launched on the Ebbw Vale line.

The Class 197 trains have started to enter service on mainline routes around Wales and the Borders, and will also now run between Ebbw Vale and Cardiff Central as well as Newport.

The Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport, Ken Skates said:

“These trains are modern and comfortable and provide a much-improved experience for passengers. This is another positive step for rail services in Wales.”

The trains are part of an £800 million investment in new trains currently being delivered by Transport for Wales, replacing trains that were between 30 and 40 years old.

Chief Customer and Culture Office at Transport for Wales Marie Daly said:

“Earlier this year we were able to launch brand new services to Newport from Ebbw Vale thanks to a £70 million public investment in the stations, track and signalling, and these new trains are the next important step to help boost the economy and to encourage people to make more sustainable journeys.”

There will be 77 of the Class 197 trains, which are assembled at the CAF train factory in Llanwern, Newport, operating throughout Wales and along its border routes, forming the backbone of the mainline fleet.

The trains will be able to run up to a maximum of four carriages on the Ebbw Vale line. Older trains will gradually be phased out over the coming years.

The Class 197s will start operating to Pembroke Dock later this year and on the Cambrian line in 2025.