Priestman Goode creates high-speed train concept

Christened Mercury, the double-decker train features an extended nose section which the consultancy describes in a statement as ‘one of the most extreme in the world’. The nose will help the train reach a speed of 360kph.

Interior features include a flexible seating scheme that incorporates entertainment systems and private ‘pods’ for family groups or business meetings. Children can use a dedicated play area, while a luxury section emulates airlines’ first-class sections with a lounge and bar.

The consultancy is unveiling the concept on Monday. It says this is ‘a pre-emptive move to persuade the Government to move forward as soon as possible with the project as a way of championing British design in the fiercely competitive global economy’.

Priestman Goode is currently working with Chinese manufacturer Sifang to design China’s new high-speed trains, which have inspired this latest project.

‘Here in the UK, an iconic train design will be one of the most successful weapons in the battle to persuade people to leave their cars at home, eschew domestic air travel and make rail their first choice,’ continues the statement. ‘Train travel needs to be as exciting as flying and as sexy as the latest car.’