14.09.17
First of ScotRail’s revamped HSTs arrives for driver training
The first of ScotRail’s refurbished high-speed trains has arrived in Aberdeen to start driver training ahead of the fleet being rolled out next year.
When finished, the revamped rolling stock will create a new connection between Scotland’s seven cities, with the first train to be based in Aberdeen where it will travel the network in the North East of Scotland for driver training over the next few months.
The new carriages boast a number of features, including more seats, increased luggage space, power sockets at seats and enhanced on-board catering.
“The arrival of the first high-speed train in Aberdeen is an exciting milestone in our plan to build the best railway Scotland has ever had,” said ScotRail Alliance managing director Alex Hynes.
“Our refurbished high-speed trains will connect Scotland’s seven cities, offering better connections for commuters, business travellers and an opportunity for tourists to get out and about across this great country.”
Hynes added that the refurbished rolling stock will mean more seats, better services and an improved experience for our customers.
“The investment we are making in high-speed trains is a clear sign of the ScotRail Alliance’s commitment to building a world class railway for the whole of Scotland,” he concluded.
Humza Yousaf, Scottish minister for transport and the Islands, stated that it was great the trains had reached this important step towards delivery.
“Next year sees the start of a transformed inter-city service – connecting Scotland's seven cities with high-speed trains,” he explained.
“The refurbishment programme has already started. And when the 26 fully upgraded trains roll-out across the country, I know they will be popular with passengers: more seats, better journeys, the latest standard of comfort, better accessibility, and enhanced catering.”
And Malcom Brown, CEO of Angel Trains, which is leasing the trains, said that the fleet will undergo interior and technical improvements prior to entering into passenger service to ensure that they can meet the requirements of modern intercity travellers.
“With the support of Transport Scotland and ScotRail, Angel Trains has committed to invest in excess of £50m in the fleet in the coming years. We will be excited to see this fleet introduced next year,” he added.
An interview with Alex Hynes will also appear in the next edition of RTM. To subscribe for your free copy, click here.
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