Testing, Testing...

A Hitachi IEP (intercity Express Project) class 800, powered by 801101 with train set T71 in Waverly station. It is undergoing test runs on the East Coast mainline in preparation for the class taking over duties from class 43 (Intercity 125) and class 91 sets. Others are taking over GWR services currently operated with class 43s. Redundant class 43 sets will be cascaded to other routes, including some Scotrail services. This particular IEP has led to some confusion as it has been renumbered from 800101 to 801101. Class 801s IEPs are EMUs (electrical multiple units) whilst Class 800s are bi-modal (ooo matron!) diesel-electrics. So what is this unit's true nature? Even Rail magazine weren't sure. From what I could see through the car windows, passenger accommodation looks very comfortable. On the right of the picture a class 170 DMU can be seen.