GREAT WESTERN Railway (GWR) will today unveil its latest cutting-edge innovation – Track Adhesion Cleaning Head Equipment (T.A.C.H.E.).
Fitted to the front and rear of Intercity Express Train 800104, the kit will be trialled on a special test run from Swansea to London Paddington at 12:01.
To view a special T.A.C.H.E. preview click here.
Sporting a flamboyant walrus design for maximum grooming efficiency, T.A.C.H.E. has been developed to help keep track smooth and spick-and-span.
The whisker-wielding wonder has been groomed by GWR’s Innovation team, led by T.A.C.H.E. Development Manager, Miss Tasha Yode.
Tasha said: “Debris on the track has always been a challenge, but T.A.C.H.E. means we can quite literally brush it all away. From the bristles of Chipping Sodbury to the undergrowth of the Severn Tunnel, we’re confident we can Zappa it all! It’ll be like giving the track a wet shave in under a minute.”
Designed with precision engineering and, of course, a touch of flair, T.A.C.H.E. also boasts eco-friendly benefits, as the collected debris is later recycled into compost for station gardens.
Tasha added: “We believe in going above and beyond to give our passengers the smoothest experience – this time, with the help of a bold moustache. And who knows, if the trial is successful, we may even roll out seasonal T.A.C.H.E. variants. Perhaps a pencil-thin model for the summer or a bushy festive edition for Christmas?”
To ensure T.A.C.H.E. performs at peak bristle brilliance even in the harshest conditions, GWR has unveiled its perfect partner for the winter months: Winter Additive – Xtreme.
The T.A.C.H.E. WA-x has been specifically formulated to keep the equipment gliding effortlessly across frosty rails, ensuring no bristle is left behind in GWR’s desire to deliver for its customers.
