TechDan2002
Member
Probably worth a longer post as you have asked a few questions on this and related topics. @richw will probably be able to add to this, as and when.
The first examples have obviously arrived and some (37012/3) have already been out in service, still in their old 17 livery with vinyls removed. Some will also be heading through the paintshop but it takes a week per vehicle and then application of vinyls.
However, some points that you really need to remember:
The Kernow FB page (and it was posted on here) showed the list of vehicles and most will be released in April but not exactly when.
- The new vehicles into Bristol have largely replaced elderly ALX400 B7TLs that have been withdrawn but even then, some have had to be reinstated.
- The next batch of new vehicles will enter service later this week BUT Kernow isn't the only recipient of vehicles from Bristol so no guarantees of what will leave and where for; at least one (and perhaps more) has gone to Essex
- Bristol has its own fleet of very old Tridents and B7TLs - some of the latter are W reg - and as they fail, they may not be repaired and so cascade plans may change in the short term
- There are a complex set of cascades required so that new vehicles can release vehicles onto the Aquae services to release the current X39 fleet allegedly to the 24 where many of the Geminis destined for Kernow currently live AND Bristol is also repainting a large number of vehicles
- Depending on what schools contracts FK win will determine how many vehicles they need. It has been rumoured that they may even need to retain some Tridents but I stress that is pure speculation
I know you're keen but it's probably going to be a little while until things are sorted and the cascade is completed.
I’ve heard rumours that 33001 might be here to stay. I certainly hope it’s true!