Arriva Group is investing 300 million GBP in a new fleet of Hitachi Rail battery-hybrid trains designed to increase seating capacity and support the UK’s decarbonisation efforts.

The order comprises nine tri-mode trains, totalling 45 rail cars, to replace the entire Grand Central fleet. The trains will be built at Hitachi Rail’s Newton Aycliffe factory in the North East and financed by Angel Trains.

State-of-the-art ‘tri-mode’ train technology has proven its ability to cut emissions and fuel costs by around 30 percent

© Arriva

Tri-mode technology enables the trains to operate using electric overhead lines, battery power, or diesel, allowing them to run on both electrified and non-electrified routes.

The investment follows regulatory approval for Grand Central’s track access rights extension until 2038, reinforcing Arriva’s long-term commitment to sustainable rail transport.

Amanda Furlong, Managing Director of Arriva UK Trains, said:

This major investment underscores our commitment to the UK market. We are proud to connect under-served communities with regional and national centres, helping make sustainable train travel the easy choice.

These best-in-class, greener trains will deliver more comfortable journeys and a step-change in capacity on our popular Grand Central services. We look forward to announcing further rolling stock orders, providing jobs and wider economic benefits, as and when our network grows.

The manufacturing of these trains at Newton Aycliffe will help secure skilled jobs and provide an opportunity for advanced battery technology development in the region. The order aligns with the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy, positioning the North East as a hub for battery-powered rail technology.

The new fleet will offer a 20 percent increase in seating capacity, equating to 400,000 additional seats annually for passengers travelling between the North East, Yorkshire, and London. The trains are expected to reduce emissions and noise pollution, particularly when operating in battery mode near urban stations.

Jim Brewin, Hitachi Rail Chief Director of UK & Ireland, said:

As we celebrate 200 years since the birth of the modern railway in the North East, it’s symbolic that innovative battery trains are being developed in Newton Aycliffe.

Battery trains’ ability to deliver cheaper, greener, and more reliable journeys means we are unlocking a new advanced manufacturing opportunity for rail today.

Following the successful trial of this pioneering battery technology last year, Arriva and Angel Trains are transforming Hitachi’s £17 million R&D investment into the first battery train order to be built in the UK.

The rolling stock will be delivered in 2028 under a 10-year leasing agreement with Angel Trains.

The new trains will also feature enhanced passenger amenities, including increased luggage storage, in-seat power, and an electronic reservation system.

Arriva has noted the role of the swift regulatory approval process in securing the investment and continues to explore options for expanding its services to underserved communities.

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