Derby train-maker in joint £2.75bn HS2 bid

Derby train-maker Bombardier is set to team up with rival Hitachi to try and win a £2.75bn contract to build trains for HS2.

The companies, according to Sky News, had previously put forward separate bids to build and maintain the 54-train fleet which will be used on the first HS2 phase between London and Birmingham.

The trains would be built in Bombardier’s Derby plant and Hitachi’s base in County Durham.

Richard Hunter, Bombardier’s UK managing director said: “We will combine both companies’ global high-speed expertise with unrivalled British experience, and help generate skills and prosperity across a number of UK regions.”

Thetendering process is due to start later this year, with the winner announced late next year.

Alstom Transport, Patentes Talgo, Siemens and CAF have also been shortlisted.