Hitachi Rail bags £300 million contract from UK to supply Battery Trains

The new fleet will consist of 45 tri-mode railcars that can operate on both electrified and non-electrified tracks. These versatile trains are powered by electricity, battery, or diesel, making them an ideal solution for a range of routes. This investment includes a 10-year maintenance contract and supports the UK Government's decarbonisation agenda by reducing emissions and fuel costs by approximately 30%.

Manufacturing and Job Creation in the North East

The trains will be manufactured at Hitachi’s Newton Aycliffe factory in the North East, further securing highly skilled jobs and fostering advanced manufacturing in the region. This new order also introduces a fresh manufacturing opportunity for battery technology, contributing to the UK’s economic growth and aligning with the Government’s Industrial Strategy.

The North East is also emerging as a hub for UK battery manufacturing, with the new trains set to boost the local economy and enhance the UK’s manufacturing capabilities. The fleet will increase seat capacity by 20%, providing 400,000 additional seats annually, catering to passengers travelling between the North East, Yorkshire, and London.

Enhanced Passenger Experience and Environmental Benefits

The new trains are designed with passenger comfort in mind. They will feature 20% more seats than the current fleet, as well as additional luggage storage, in-seat power, and an electronic reservation system. Furthermore, the tri-mode technology will allow the trains to enter and exit stations in zero-emission battery mode, reducing both emissions and noise in urban centres and improving air quality.

With the UK Government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transport, these new trains align with the nation’s goals for a greener and more reliable rail system. The battery hybrid technology trialed successfully in 2024 will also reduce operational costs, offering long-term benefits for both passengers and operators.

Commitment to Sustainable Rail and Economic Growth

The investment in these battery trains represents Arriva’s long-term commitment to UK rail and its focus on sustainable public transport solutions. Amanda Furlong, Managing Director of Arriva UK Trains, emphasized the significance of this investment, stating, "These best-in-class, greener trains will deliver more comfortable journeys and a step-change in capacity on our popular Grand Central services."

The trains are expected to be delivered by 2028, under a 10-year leasing arrangement, financed by Angel Trains. This deal follows the approval by the rail regulator, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), to extend the track access rights for Grand Central services until 2038. The investment is part of Arriva’s broader strategy to expand its services, including new routes such as direct trains from Cleethorpes to London and additional connections between Bradford, York, and London.

Support from Government and Local Leaders

The announcement was made at Hitachi’s Newton Aycliffe factory, attended by the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander MP. She expressed her support for the project, saying, “This new £300m investment marks another step forward in securing the future of rail manufacturing in the North East. This landmark deal will create high-skilled jobs, drive economic growth, and deliver real improvements in people’s lives.”

Kim McGuinness, Mayor of the North East, also praised the announcement, saying, “This is great news for Hitachi and its highly skilled workforce, showing there’s real confidence in advanced manufacturing in North East England.”

Looking Ahead: A Greener Future for UK Rail

Hitachi Rail Chief Director of UK & Ireland, Jim Brewin, highlighted the symbolic nature of this milestone, noting, “As we celebrate 200 years since the birth of the modern railway in the North East, it’s fitting that innovative battery trains are being developed here.”

The contract represents a major step forward in the UK’s efforts to create a greener, more efficient rail network and signals a bright future for both the rail industry and regional economies.

Key Points:

• £300 million investment in 45 tri-mode battery hybrid trains.

• Manufacturing at Hitachi’s Newton Aycliffe factory in North East England.

• Increased capacity with 20% more seats, providing 400,000 additional seats annually.

• Battery hybrid technology reduces emissions and fuel consumption by 30%.

• Delivery of the fleet by 2028 under a 10-year leasing arrangement.

• Boost to regional economies, creating highly skilled jobs in advanced manufacturing.

The new battery trains mark a significant leap forward in delivering greener, more efficient, and cost-effective rail travel for the UK.