Rail operator shares first look of new train fleet’s interiors

East Midlands Railway has released the first images of the interiors of its new £400 million fleet of trains.

The bi-mode Aurora trains are set to transform the experience of customers using the Midland Main Line when they are introduced during 2025 and throughout 2026.

Features of the new state-of-the-art trains include more seats and luggage space than EMR’s existing Meridian fleet, modern interiors, air conditioning, free WiFi, power sockets and USB ports at each seat and live passenger information.

EMR sourced and adapted a brand-new seat design for the new trains.

The seat enhancements included increasing the size of cushions, headrests and armrests and making sure that high quality durable materials were used throughout.

At the same time, it has ensured the seats include all the practical and technological features including power and USB points, generous legroom, coat hooks, well-sized seat-back tables for all airline style seats and space to stow a cabin-bag under each seat as well as generous overhead luggage storage.

There will also be dedicated wheelchair spaces and bicycle storage.

The new Aurora fleet will include a new Wi-Fi system that uses multiple sim cards to select the best possible signal for customers as they travel to and from London.

Customers who want to use their own mobile signal will also benefit from better connections as the trains will be fitted with bespoke glass windows designed to allow signals to pass through.

Rachel Turner, head of new trains at East Midlands Railway, said: “We’re really excited to share new photos of the interiors of our bi-mode fleet as the fleet progresses through testing and towards being passenger-ready.

“We have worked closely with Hitachi to ensure our trains offer customers the features and comfort they expect from a modern train.”