East Midlands Railway (EMR), operated by Transport UK, has unveiled the first fully refurbished Class 360 train, marking a significant milestone in its £30 million investment to transform journeys on the EMR Connect route between Corby and London St Pancras International.
The modernised unit is the first to return to service under a wider £60 million regional refurbishment programme aimed at upgrading trains across the East Midlands network. The initiative is designed to deliver a markedly improved passenger experience for commuters, leisure travellers and airport users alike.
A step-change in passenger experience
Passengers travelling on EMR Connect and the Luton Airport Express will notice an immediate difference. The refurbished trains feature a completely redesigned interior with a 2+2 seating layout throughout, combining airline-style seating with table bays to maximise both comfort and space.
Upgrades extend beyond seating. The trains now include:
- Enhanced luggage storage tailored for airport passengers
- Power sockets and USB charging points at every seat
- Improved passenger information systems
- Refreshed interiors with modern finishes
- Accessibility enhancements to better support all users
The first refurbished train is scheduled to enter passenger service next month, with further units to follow as the programme accelerates.
Supporting sustainable rail growth
The EMR Connect service, which operates twice-hourly between Corby and London St Pancras International, calling at Kettering, Wellingborough, Bedford, Luton and Luton Airport Parkway, has already established itself as a key part of the region’s transport infrastructure.
Introduced in 2021 as EMR’s first all-electric route, it has delivered a 77 per cent reduction in carbon emissions compared with the diesel services it replaced—an important benchmark in the rail sector’s decarbonisation journey.
Industry leaders welcome milestone
Senior figures from across the rail industry and transport sector have welcomed the progress, highlighting both passenger benefits and long-term fleet performance.
Dominic Booth, CEO of Transport UK, said:
“This is a perfect example of our delivery-first culture in action, driven by operational expertise.
"As part of our substantial £60 million regional refurbishment programme, it ensures comprehensive upgrades, delivering a higher quality journey for EMR passengers. Crucially, this commitment extends beyond today's comfort: we are securing the long-term reliability of a modern electric fleet that has already achieved a 77 per cent reduction in carbon emissions on this route, serving the region responsibly and sustainably for years to come.”
Will Rogers, Managing Director of East Midlands Railway, added:
"This investment will transform the experience for our customers, delivering trains that are more comfortable, more practical and better suited to modern travel.
“The refurbished fleet will provide a step-change for passengers using EMR Connect and Luton Airport Express services and I look forward to hearing what customers think of it when the first enters service next month.”
Supply chain collaboration delivers results
Rolling stock owner Angel Trains and manufacturer Siemens Mobility have played key roles in delivering the upgrade programme, working closely with EMR to bring the redesigned trains into service.
David Jordan, Chief Operating Officer at Angel, said:
"These upgrades will make a real difference to passengers travelling on the EMR Connect route, helping to deliver a more modern and comfortable onboard experience while ensuring these trains continue to serve communities across the region for years to come.
“Programmes like this demonstrate how targeted investment in refurbishment can transform the passenger experience, while supporting the long-term future of rail travel. We’re proud to be supporting EMR in delivering this investment.”
Aglaja Schneider, Joint UK&I CEO, Siemens Mobility UK&I and Managing Director for Rolling Stock and Customer Services, added:
"Our teams in Northampton and Bedford have worked closely with East Midlands Railway and Angel Trains throughout, and the result is a train that looks and feels noticeably different for passengers. There's more to come as the rest of the fleet moves through the programme, and we're looking forward to completing more trains to ensure comfortable and reliable journeys in the region for the long term."
Boost for airport connectivity and regional strategy
The investment also strengthens rail links to London Luton Airport, with the Luton Airport Express providing a seamless connection via the Luton DART system.
Alberto Martin, Chief Executive Officer at London Luton Airport, said:
“London Luton Airport’s commitment to a simple, friendly journey extends to the moment people leave home. The addition of the Luton Airport Express has been transformative, linking Central London to the terminal in a little over 30 minutes via a seamless connection with the Luton DART.
"This multi million pound investment from EMR delivers a modern, comfortable on board experience for the growing number of passengers using the service, further strengthening rail as an attractive, more sustainable option for airport travel.”
Regional transport leaders have also endorsed the developments.
Sir Peter Soulsby, Chair of Transport for the East Midlands (TfEM), said:
"Refurbishment of the electric Class 360’s to a level more consistent with their strategic role has been a key priority for the TfEM Board.
"We are delighted at the progress that EMR have now made, and look forward to the full roll-out of refurbished trains over the coming months.”
Looking ahead
With further refurbished Class 360 units expected to enter service in the coming months, EMR’s investment signals a broader shift towards modern, sustainable and passenger-focused rail travel across the region. For operators and stakeholders, the programme provides a clear example of how targeted upgrades to existing rolling stock can deliver both immediate and long-term value.
Image credits: East Midlands Railway
