A new £400 million fleet has begun operating on the Midland Main Line, marking a significant shift in capacity and reliability for business travel across the East Midlands and South Yorkshire. The first unit has now completed its initial passenger journey between Sheffield and London, signalling the start of a phased rollout that will see 33 bi-mode trains enter full service.
The introduction of the fleet aligns with the wider £1.5 billion upgrade of the Midland Main Line. The new trains can operate on overhead electric lines, supporting lower emissions and reduced noise on key intercity routes. Each five-carriage formation offers a sizeable increase in capacity compared with the outgoing Meridian stock, with more seats, additional legroom, and modernised on-board facilities designed to improve productivity for business travellers.
The fleet incorporates revised seating, developed with a Derby-based design team to meet current expectations for comfort and functionality. Power outlets, USB charging, expanded tables, and under-seat storage form part of the updated interior specification.
Connectivity has been strengthened through an upgraded Wi-Fi system that uses multiple SIM profiles to maintain consistent service. Newly engineered glass also enables better mobile signal penetration, improving access to digital tools during journeys.
Once all units are deployed, the fleet will significantly expand total seating availability on the Midland Main Line and support increasing demand for efficient regional and intercity rail services.
