This week the new ‘Intercity’ EMR (East Midlands Rail) train was unveiled. EMR has released details of what the new interiors will look like and a new purple livery. But this is not just a cosmetic makeover.
The £600 million project is part of the wider £1.5 billion pledged to overhaul the line’s infrastructure from Sheffield to London. On the surface, too many of these may look like the ordinary train you might see on your commute. However, inside is where you can see the real improvements. And with that amount of money attached to improving the fleet you would hope so too.
We've just released episode 2 of our Aurora documentary, which explores the interior features of the new fleet that will benefit our customers whilst travelling along the Midland Mainline. Tap below to find out more and watch the episode 👇https://t.co/fKb88W0ZpU pic.twitter.com/mjeoawCIta
— East Midlands Railway (EMR) (@EastMidRailway) February 21, 2024
The whole project has been and will continue to be a real bonus for the British workers creating a number of British-based jobs, with multiple parts of the process being expedited to British firms.
On EMR’s website, they say they are “working closely with Derby-based design firm DG DESIGN, we have taken the proven product of a FISA Lean seat and refined it to offer enhanced comfort and support. The seat includes increasing the size of cushions, headrests, and armrests. Making sure that high-quality durable materials are used throughout.”
The New trains will see an increased amount of seating per carriage and will run with electric cabling above the tracks. As a result, they are quieter and greener which in turn means lower carbon emissions and “a better environment for our passengers, stations and communities along the route.”
Why Aurora?
In the spirit of the environmental aspect of the whole project, and the theme of electricity, the name is inspired by the Northern Lights, created by the transfer of the sun’s solar energy – “matching Aurora’s ability to run under electric power.”
Rail Minister, Chris Heston-Harris has said of the project that the “plans for East Midlands Railway will make a real difference to passengers, delivering state of the art trains with more seats, station improvements and trialing hydrogen fuel cell technology to ensure that East Midlands Railway becomes one of the most environmentally friendly in the UK. These are strong promises, and are steps in the right direction.”
What else has been promised by this £600 million redevelopment?
- £20 million investment in all stations along the line with major schemes to turn six into ‘Eco Station”
- Improved connections to London Luton Airport
- Doubling the capacity into London St Pancreas with 40% more services and longer trains
- Extension of smart and mobile ticketing, with the introduction of a flexible season ticket for the intercity line.
