LNER has revealed the name and first interior images of its next-generation intercity fleet, marking a major milestone for long‑distance rail travel on the East Coast Main Line (ECML). The new Class 897 “Serenza” trains, built by CAF and financed by Porterbrook, promise a significant leap forward in comfort, capacity, and sustainability as they prepare to enter service over the coming years.
The announcement comes as LNER continues to face unprecedented customer demand. More than 24 million passengers travelled with LNER in 2024–25, and December 2025 saw the rollout of a transformative timetable delivering an additional 60,000 seats every week across the ECML. The new fleet will further expand capacity and enhance reliability across the near‑1,000‑mile network.
A First for Great British Railways (GBR)
As the rail industry transitions toward Great British Railways, the Class 897s will be the first new fleet introduced under GBR. They will operate under the new nationalised organisation and carry GBR branding both inside and out.
Introducing “Serenza” – A Fresh Identity for the Future
To distinguish the new trains from LNER’s existing Azuma fleet, the Class 897s have been named “Serenza” — a blend of “serene” and a Spanish‑inspired “-enza” suffix, symbolising calm, movement, and modernity.
Tri‑Mode Technology for a Greener Railway
The Serenza Class 897s will be the first long‑distance tri‑mode trains in the UK, able to operate using:
- Overhead electric power
- Diesel engines
- Battery technology
This flexibility allows full route coverage, improved performance, and reduced diesel usage—especially on station approaches without overhead wires.
Customer‑Driven Interior Design
LNER’s design programme has incorporated significant customer and stakeholder feedback, delivering an interior focused on comfort, accessibility, and sustainability. Each 10‑carriage train will include 569 seats across Standard and First Class, with enhanced comfort features such as:
- New, more supportive seat pads
- Widened side bolsters and head cushions
- Recline functionality in First Class
- Durable, sustainable seat materials
Improved digital screens will provide real‑time journey and safety information, while five water refill stations support eco‑conscious travel. For cyclists, LNER has redesigned bike storage with intuitive straps for secure, easy loading.
Lighting has also been refined, with new softer ambient lighting and First Class mood and table lighting for more comfortable early‑morning and late‑evening travel.
A Strong Commitment to Accessibility
LNER collaborated closely with its Accessibility Forum, implementing the vast majority of 47 recommendations. Key improvements include:
- Redesigned tables for wheelchair users
- Adjusted seat legs to create space for assistance dogs
- Full‑length Café Bar grab rail
- Additional luggage racks in wheelchair‑designated carriages
- Braille seat numbers
Toilets have been upgraded with clearer signage, improved wash basins, and enhanced baby‑changing facilities.
Upgraded Onboard Power and Catering
Each seat will offer plug sockets and USB‑C charging ports, with tabletop power bars at table seating. Standard Class travellers will benefit from a new Café Bar, featuring regional food and drink suppliers and digital menu screens displaying real‑time availability.
Leadership Comments
Dr Linda Wain, Engineering Director at LNER, said:
“This is an exciting milestone for LNER as we reveal an insight into what our customers can expect from their journeys in the future and unveil a name. Our new fleet will bring more comfortable, more reliable, and greener journeys across the East Coast Main Line for decades to come and we are looking forward to their introduction in the coming years.
“Reaching this stage has taken a huge amount of work and it has been great to work in partnership with CAF as we design this new fleet of trains. As LNER continues to welcome more customers onboard, these trains will be vital in helping to meet demand for train travel while delivering a new, modern experience for our customers.”
Rail Minister Lord Hendy added:
“We’re investing in our railways and bringing train operators into public ownership to put passengers back at the heart of what the railway does. This new fleet will be introduced under Great British Railways and will make travel even better for passengers.
“A better, more attractive railway will drive economic growth, jobs and homes along the entire East Coast Main Line, and follows the new ECML timetable which is transforming journeys by unlocking thousands of extra seats and more cheap fares.”
Replacing a Workhorse
The Serenza fleet will replace the iconic InterCity 225 trains, which have served the route for nearly 40 years and are now in their final years of operation.
Full design sign‑off is expected soon, with further announcements planned as the project progresses.
