Northern Trains is advancing towards its largest fleet investment ever, potentially adding up to 450 new trains. The publicly owned operator has invited leading train manufacturers to negotiate the supply of new trains for the North of England.
These new trains will be introduced gradually, replacing the oldest units in Northern’s fleet, many of which have been in service since the 1980s and 90s. The plan aims to replace approximately two-thirds of the existing fleet within the next decade.
The new fleet will include a mix of electric and multi-modal (diesel/electric) trains, with manufacturers also asked to propose battery-powered options. The multi-modal units will be designed for future conversion to battery or electric-only operation, supporting the government’s net-zero objectives for a cleaner, greener railway.
By reducing the variety of train types, Northern Trains aims to simplify operations, enhance staff training, and lower maintenance costs, ultimately reducing the need for taxpayer subsidies.
Tricia Williams, managing director of Northern, said: “Almost 60% of the trains in our fleet are between 32 and 40 years old and, while they’ve served the region well, it’s important we get the ball rolling on their replacement.
“It’s game-changing for Northern and will transform the look and feel of our fleet for millions of customers – and it also cements electric and battery as the long-term power source of choice for our fleet.”
It is expected the contract will be awarded to the successful bidder or bidders in 2026, with an aim to have first trains delivered to Northern by 2030.
Rail Minister Lord Hendy said: “This vital fleet upgrade will create smoother journeys and help Northern provide the services their passengers deserve. It’s also great news for our rail manufacturing industry and demonstrates that the pipeline for orders is strong.”
In phase one, Northern Trains will replace its ageing Class 150, 155, and 156 trains, and introduce 12 new electric three-carriage trains for local stopping services between York, Leeds, Huddersfield, and Manchester, following the electrification of the Transpennine Route.
Future phases will see the replacement of the next oldest fleets as new trains are produced. These new fleets will incorporate the latest technologies, ensuring they meet the needs of both current and future customers by providing higher levels of comfort, reliability, and overall satisfaction.
Gradually phasing out diesel trains will significantly improve local air and noise quality, particularly in areas where these issues are a concern.
Williams added: “The new trains will support the government’s commitment to achieving Net Zero operations by 2050 whilst reflecting the reality that only 25% of the Northern network is currently electrified.”
As part of the initial 'Invitation to Negotiate' phase in the procurement process, Northern Trains has approached leading manufacturers Alstom, CAF, Hitachi, Siemens, and Stadler.
While the exact timelines for the introduction of the new trains will be determined during the procurement process, Northern has set ambitious targets for the bidders to deliver the trains as quickly as possible.
Image credit: Northern
