ScotRail has reached a major milestone in its programme to deliver a new generation of suburban trains, with procurement progressing to the Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) stage.
The move marks the next formal step in the competitive procurement process following the successful completion of the pre-qualification phase, where potential suppliers were assessed before a shortlist of bidders was selected. The development brings Scotland one step closer to securing a modern fleet of electric and battery-electric trains that will transform suburban rail travel across the country.
Five manufacturers have been shortlisted to participate in the ITN process:
- Alstom Engineering and Services Limited
- Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles S.A. (CAF S.A.)
- Hitachi Rail Limited
- Siemens Mobility Limited
- Stadler Rail Schweiz AG
The procurement will support the delivery of at least 69 new electric and battery-electric trains, with options for up to 37 additional units. Once introduced during the early 2030s, the fleet will operate on a range of key suburban and regional routes including East Kilbride, Fife, Borders, and Glasgow's inner suburban network, serving destinations such as Motherwell, Larkhall, Lanark and Shotts.
The new trains form a central part of Scotland's wider rail modernisation programme and will work alongside ongoing electrification projects being delivered by Network Rail. The investment is expected to improve reliability, increase accessibility, and help reduce carbon emissions by replacing ageing diesel rolling stock.
Alongside the trains themselves, the procurement covers the design, manufacture, testing, certification, commissioning and delivery of the fleet. It also includes long-term technical support and spare parts arrangements to ensure reliable operation throughout the trains' lifecycle.
Passengers can expect a range of enhanced onboard features, including:
- Modern air-conditioning systems.
- More reliable passenger Wi-Fi, connectivity and real-time travel information.
- Improved accessibility through reduced stepping distances between platforms and train entrances.
- Better provision for bicycles, wheelchairs and family travel, helping create a more inclusive customer experience.
The Scottish Government has approved the full procurement process, reinforcing its commitment to delivering a greener and more efficient railway.
Stephen Flynn MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport, said:
“Resilient and efficient ScotRail services are crucial to improving access to employment, education and leisure opportunities across Scotland.
“The next stage of the procurement process marks a significant milestone as we work towards a new suburban fleet, demonstrating our commitment to economic growth and improved connectivity.
“This will deliver 69 new suburban trains, and alongside the electrification of the Fife and Borders routes, will mean a more reliable, accessible and sustainable railway for communities across Scotland.”
Joanne Maguire, ScotRail Managing Director, said:
“This is an exciting step forward in our plans for a new suburban train fleet for Scotland that will benefit customers for many years to come.
“These new modern electric and battery-electric trains will make journeys more comfortable for customers, improve accessibility and reliability, and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable railway.
“Investment in modern trains is vital to providing a better journey experience and is central to encouraging more people to leave the car at home and travel by rail.”
The procurement programme represents one of the most significant rolling stock investments planned for Scotland's railway network this decade and underscores ScotRail's ambition to provide cleaner, more reliable and customer-focused rail services for the future.
Image credit: iStock
