Hull Trains is investing £68m to buy new high-speed, bi-mode trains to ensure shorter journey times to London, UK.
With electric and diesel operation capabilities, the bi-mode trains are expected to enter service in 2020.
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The five electro-diesel, multiple units to be supplied by Hitachi will ensure high-speed connectivity of the Hull & Humber region with London, despite delays in rail electrification across the country.
The UK Government has suspended various electrification projects across the country, but Hull Trains is in talks with Network Rail and the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to secure a high-speed service to the route.
The company is also making efforts to secure track access for at least another ten years, which will allow it to continue operating Hull to London services until 2029.
The new trains, which will have operating speeds of up to 140mph, will replace the existing four 125mph Class 180 vehicles built by Alstom.
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By GlobalDataEach five-car Hitachi trainsets will have up to 320 seats, a 50% increase from the current capacity of 266 seats in a Class 180 unit.
Hull Trains managing director Will Dunnett said: "The new units will bring an even higher quality environment for passengers with new interiors, enhanced catering, air-conditioning and a quieter environment due to electric traction, all areas that we know are important to passengers."
"In a nutshell, the bi-mode units deliver the benefits of electrification now. But as a result of their bi-mode capability, they also ensure that we can continue to serve stations such as Beverley after electrification of the Hull to Selby track is completed."
Plans also include creation of additional permanent jobs for Hull Trains and its local partners.
Image: Hull’s new high-speed, bi-mode trains are expected to enter service in 2020. Photo: courtesy of Hull Trains.
