Often before a new tramway, or even a new class of tram, is introduced the manufacturers of the trams produce a mock-up which allows the public to see what they may expect when services commence. Many of those mock-ups have a very short life span as once their original purpose is over they find no new role and are scrapped. But some have a longer life, whether that be as a “Tram Lounge” in Edinburgh or in the case of the Metrolink T68 mock-up put on display at a museum.
Completed in early 1990, the mock-up was originally displayed in one of the arches at Manchester Piccadilly Station to allow for a consultation on the interior design of the new trams which were on order to operate the future Metrolink system. At this time it was in an orange and white livery but the production trams would of course receive the white and aqua livery before entering service.
After its use as a mock-up was over, the bodyshell was donated to the Manchester Museum of Transport at Boyle Street. Having received the more current Metrolink livery it was put on display there and also received the number 1000 and name “THE LARRY SULLIVAN”. Retaining seating and with mirrors in place to make it seem that it’s a full length tram rather than just being part of one it remains on display there today.
The exterior of 1000 at the museum.
Inside the mock-up towards the one cab at the front.
From the front to the back. The mirror at the rear can be seen here which allows visitors to imagine what a full length vehicle may look like. (Photograph by Trevor Hall, 22nd October 2022)