Hull Trains announces the arrival of Hitachi-built Paragon fleet

Hull Trains has announced that the first of the five Hitachi Rail Paragon trains forming its £60m investment has arrived.

The five bi-mode intercity Class 802 trains will serve passengers travelling from Hull to London and are capable of switching between diesel and electric power. The trains are constructed using Japanese bullet train technology, offering faster acceleration and longer carriages with more seats. They are expected to start service by next year and will add 5,500 extra seats to the route weekly.

Hull Trains managing director Louise Cheeseman said:  “We have made a significant investment in these hi-tech trains which will completely overhaul the current service as our customers know it.

“Not only will these trains give a smoother ride, but they will also be a lot more reliable than our existing trains, they will include complimentary Wi-Fi, plug and USB sockets throughout, a brand new at-seat trolley service and an even greater choice and improved quality of hot and cold food. More people will be able to travel, thanks to the 22% additional capacity.”

Hitachi Rail Group CEO Andy Barr said: “These new trains designed using advanced bullet train technology have proven extremely popular, becoming the intercity train of choice on Britain’s rail network.”

Last month, UAE-based Etihad Rail awarded a $435.5m systems and integration contract to Hitachi Rail STS for stage two of its rail network.

In July, UK transport operator Abellio awarded Hitachi Rail a contract worth £400m to supply intercity trains for East Midlands Railway.