First look at EMR’s new £400m fleet of trains with WIFI and plug sockets that will enter service this December
The state-of-the-art Hitachi Rail built fleet will “transform” the experience of passengers, according to EMR
East Midlands Railway has confirmed that the first of its new £400 million fleet of Class 810 Aurora trains will enter service this December.
Described as “an exciting new chapter of intercity travel” by EMR, the 33 new trains will take advantage of the £1.5 billion Midland Main Line upgrades.
The state-of-the-art Hitachi Rail-built fleet will feature more seats, modern, spacious interiors, improved air conditioning, free WiFi, plug sockets at every seat and clear customer information screens.
The new trains will have the ability to run on electric overhead lines - cutting carbon emissions by 66%, meaning quieter and greener journeys.
Each Aurora will provide 24% more seats and over 19% more legroom in a typical five carriage formation, compared to the Meridian trains they are replacing.
Once the full fleet of 33 trains is in service, it will deliver a 46% increase in the total number of seats available for customers travelling on the Midland Main Line.
Will Rogers, Managing Director for East Midlands Railway said: “The introduction of our first Aurora train this December marks the start of a new era for Intercity travel across the East Midlands and South Yorkshire.
“Our Auroras have been designed with our customers at their heart; with more seats, greater comfort, better connectivity and a smoother, quieter ride.
“We and our colleagues at Transport UK are delighted to be delivering a railway that our customers, communities and our employees can truly take pride in.”