New Transport For Wales Class 231s On Test at Bristol Parkway

Filmed on the 15th and 16th of August 2022, we see a handful of class 231 'Flirt' units built by Stadler Rail on test between Cardiff Central and Swindon filmed at Bristol Parkway.
These new diesel units are part of Transport For Wales' plans to modernise their current fleet of ageing rolling stock.
Units seen are 231003 and 231007 + 231010 coupled up as a pair.

[@maxjackson4363]

ITS STEPFORD CONNECT

[@maxjackson4363]

are these airlinks?

[@Ethanpick]

No pretty sure its waterline as that's James street he is at

[@EdgyNumber1]

I wished they'd used these bi-mode trains on the Wales to Birmingham route. They'd work well between the diesel and electrified section. Instead we get cruddy CAF diesel only trains.

[@chungusgoat1460]

yeah it would be good but the main issue is the cambrian cost line and all of the stations being too small

[@EdgyNumber1]

@@chungusgoat1460 that shouldn't really be a problem since doors can be locked out when opening for boarding.

[@alexpeak16]

These trains don't have a pantograph?

[@TG_Trains]

They do not, theyre diesel only. But I believe they are getting other Flirt units similar to these that have pantographs and are bi-modal but I might be wrong.

[@RubberDucky152]

@@TG_Trains They have gotten the pantograph versions, I have seen one going through Severn Tunnel Junction about a week ago on a test run from Cardiff to Gloucester via Bristol Parkway, I couldn't film it because I was escorting a friend through the station who has mobility problems though. The pantograph versions are the class 756s if you're interested.

[@drukoo3089]

They’re just testing them anywhere

[@sexynisi1]

No because the Newport to Gloucester

[@dbit22]

Are the tiny numbers on the side the only way of identifying the unit? If so, that is the most stupid thing I have seen