If more capacity is needed then adding a few extra units compatible with existing stock will make the most sense (or extending a few sets). Them being diesel only is really neither here nor there. There is an absolute lack of OLE for anything to run on TFW’s routes, outside of the CVL.
Level boarding wasn’t specced because it wouldn’t work basically anywhere on that same network, platform heights are all over the place, with some even having humps installed to save on the costs of raising the platform height.
Perhaps if we saw more OLE erected, such as Wolves - Shrewsbury then You may start to get into the territory where bi-modes could be justified.
To go with that though, do we know of any 2 or 3 car bi-modes currently in UK operation? Many services don’t justify more carriages than that and no one has the cash to be spending large sums on longer Bi-mode sets to run around empty.
TFW’s new timetables will also be reliant upon the Class 197 performance capabilities which, any bi-modes are not likely to be able to keep to on diesel, especially if they were only 2 or 3 carriages.
Ultimately the 756’s are 75mph units and the 231’s are 90mph but do not have the fuel capacity to do the diagrams operated by the 197’s.
Ultimately, So many issues, so little money to rectify them.
This also goes for the loco replacements. It would be great if 93’s could replace the 67’s but their diesel / battery capabilities would be insufficient up the Marches.
