THE first of a new generation of trains made its debut journey on the East Coast Main Line yesterday for final testing before entering service.

The Class 185 three-car diesel made two problem-free return trips between York and Darlington, reaching speeds of 100mph.

Technicians and driver chiefs tested the on-board systems, including global positioning systems which keep passengers up-to-date with progress - and pronounced themselves very satisfied. The train will go into service for First TransPennine in spring, probably on the Hull to Manchester line, before being introduced on York, Darlington, Newcastle and Middlesbrough services in autumn.

A total of 51 Class 185s are being built for First Group by Germany's Siemens Transportations Systems in a £250m investment in rail travel in the North.

Following the success of the trials, the full fleet should be in operation by next January.

The Class 185s are to be the fourth new train fleet introduced by First Group to the UK network since rail privatisation and have been designed specifically for the routes on which they will be used.

They are the first diesel version of the proven Siemens Desiro electric train design and each has air conditioning, Intercity train quality seating, including a first-class section, on-board security cameras and easier access for disabled people.

Equipped with three Cummins diesel engines, the trains are said to have excellent hill-climbing abilities and much improved reliability. They will run in three and six-car formations.

Work is currently under way on a £10m maintenance centre for the trains at York - and another at Ardwick, near Manchester.

Due to open in the spring, it will employ 40 people and will be capable of cleaning, refuelling and servicing up to nine three-car trains a day.

Rolling stock leasing company HSBC Rail will own and lease the trains to First TransPennine Express for the duration of its franchise, which runs to February 2012 or until 2017 if the term is extended.

First Group's chief executive, Moir Lockhead, said: "This major investment underlines First's commitment to transforming travel across the UK."

Siemens Transportation board member Joern Sens said: "The project team adopted a quite pragmatic approach.

"Issues like the specific requirement for driver training and improvements regarding the design resulting from the various tests were all incorporated into the train development in a spirit of common understanding and co-operation."