On Transport Day at COP26, the Railway Industry Association (RIA) has highlighted the capability of the UK rail industry to deliver a green railway system for passengers, as two net zero trains welcome political and industry leaders in Glasgow.

Vivarail’s battery train and Porterbrook’s HydroFLEX hydrogen train have been on display during the Climate Conference, welcoming senior delegations on board. This includes Prime Minister Boris Johnson who visited the trains at Glasgow Central Station.

On Tuesday 9th November, RIA also held a Trailblazers networking event on Vivarail’s battery train – an initiative that aims to encourage new entrants and support young professionals in the industry.

Darren Caplan, Chief Executive of the Railway Industry Association (RIA), said: “We were delighted to see the Prime Minister join senior leaders in visiting Vivarail and Porterbrook’s net zero trains in Glasgow. It is huge credit the teams involved in both projects, which demonstrate the capabilities the UK has to reach a net zero transport system.

“This week has shown that the industry stands ready to deliver clean rail travel for passengers across the UK. As RIA’s RailDecarb21 campaign has called for, it is now over to Government to commit to a programme to electrify the UK’s railways and fleet orders of battery and hydrogen trains.

“It was also fantastic to host our Trailblazers reception on board Vivarail’s battery train, an event which aims to promote young professionals in the sector. We would like to say a huge thank you to Vivarail for hosting us.”