29.08.18
Latest set of electric trains introduced by ScotRail
ScotRail’s latest trains have hit the tracks this week with the second introduction of its Hitachi Class 385 Express electric vehicle.
As part of the £475m rolling stock investment from ScotRail, the extra two trains introduced on Monday meant that more than 25% of services on the Edinburgh-Glasgow Queen Street via Falkirk High route will now be operated by the Class 385s.
ScotRail Alliance managing director Alex Hynes said the decision was “another important step forward” for ScotRail.
He added: “We are committed to building the best railway Scotland has ever had and this investment will help to deliver that.
“These trains will benefit customers all across the country, as they will allow us to move trains currently running between Edinburgh and Glasgow out across the network. This will help us to deliver faster journeys, more seats, and better services for our customers.”
The new trains aim to deliver faster journeys, more seats, and better services for ScotRail customers who will be able to use the £858m electrification of the line between Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Additional improvements to services following the investment include upgraded stations along the route and the redevelopment of Glasgow Queen Street and the electrification of the Central Belt including the route between Glasgow/Edinburgh and Stirling/Dunblane/Alloa.
Michael Matheson, Cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure, and connectivity, said: “The introduction of more of the new fleet of C385 electric trains will provide extra seats and allow more passengers to enjoy the modern facilities on board between Glasgow and Edinburgh.
“I know that Hitachi and ScotRail staff are continuing to work hard to deliver the remainder of the fleet which, when they come into service, will help increase overall seating capacity by more than 23% across the Scottish network.”
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Image credit: ScotRail