First look inside 'modern' £400 million East Midlands Railway new fleet of trains
A major £400 million investment will see a new fleet of electro-diesel trains for East Midlands Railway (EMR). The new trains will boost capacity on the Midland Main Line according to bosses.
The new trains, which are set to be phased in throughout 2025 and 2026, are current underdoing testing. The first of the "state-of-the-art" Aurora fleet trains will run on routes across the Midland Main Line.
EMR says the Aurora fleet will set a new standard for rail travel. They say they will combine improved capacity with modern features.
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The new fleet includes a bespoke seat design, developed in collaboration with a Derby design firm. The seats offer enhanced comfort with larger cushions, headrests, and armrests.
Rachel Turner, head of new trains at EMR, said: "These modern bi-mode trains represent a huge upgrade. Not only do they offer more seats and luggage space than our existing Meridian fleet, the carriage interiors have been designed to maximize comfort and practicality.
"With features such as air conditioning, free WiFi, power sockets and USB ports at every seat, and live passenger information screens, I am certain they will prove popular."
A new class-leading Wi-Fi system will use multiple SIM cards to select the best possible signal for customers as they travel. Customers who want to use their own mobile signal will also benefit from better connections as the trains will be fitted with bespoke glass windows designed to allow signals to pass through.
The trains also feature dedicated wheelchair spaces and bicycle storage areas, ensuring accessibility for all passengers.
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