Arriva Group has announced a £300 million investment to replace its entire fleet with nine new battery hybrid trains. The order includes 45 Hitachi Rail ‘tri-mode’ cars, designed to run on electrified and non-electrified tracks using electric, battery, or diesel power. The investment also includes a 10-year maintenance contract. This move follows approval from the rail regulator, which has extended track access rights for Grand Central’s services through 2038.
The new trains will be built at Hitachi Rail’s Newton Aycliffe factory, safeguarding jobs and supporting the UK’s manufacturing sector. The addition of battery technology in the order creates new manufacturing opportunities, boosting the local supply chain. This investment aligns with the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy and its goals for economic growth, further solidifying the North East’s position as a UK battery hub.
These new trains will increase seating capacity by 20%, providing 400,000 additional seats annually for passengers traveling between the North East, Yorkshire, and London. The tri-mode capability of the trains also means they could be used on other routes in the future. With their advanced technology, the trains are expected to reduce emissions and noise. They will be delivered in 2028 under a 10-year leasing arrangement, financed in partnership with Angel Trains.
Amanda Furlong, managing director of Arriva UK Trains, highlighted the significance of the investment, stating, “This major investment underscores our commitment to the UK market. We are proud to connect underserved communities with regional and national centres, helping make sustainable train travel the easy choice. These greener trains will offer more comfortable journeys and increased capacity on our popular Grand Central services.”
Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, emphasized the broader impact of the deal, saying, “Just four months after the Prime Minister and I welcomed a major agreement for Hitachi and its workforce in Newton Aycliffe, this new £300 million investment takes us another step forward in securing the future of rail manufacturing in the North East.”
Alexander continued, “This investment will not only create greener travel for passengers but also provide opportunities to enhance skills in the workforce, ensuring that the jobs in Newton Aycliffe are future-proofed.”
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness expressed her satisfaction with the development, stating, “Securing the future of Hitachi in County Durham and protecting the jobs of those working at the Newton Aycliffe plant has been a priority of mine since becoming Mayor. This order by Arriva is another indication that we are on the right path, reflecting confidence in advanced manufacturing in North East England.”
Jim Brewin, Hitachi Rail’s Chief Director for the UK & Ireland, pointed out the symbolic nature of this investment, saying, “As we celebrate 200 years since the birth of the modern railway in the North East, it is fitting that innovative battery trains are being developed here in Newton Aycliffe. These trains will deliver cheaper, greener, and more reliable journeys, opening new opportunities for advanced manufacturing in rail.”
The new battery hybrid trains will reduce emissions and fuel consumption by approximately 30%. They can operate in zero-emission battery mode when entering and exiting stations, helping to improve air quality and reduce noise in urban areas. With 20% more seating capacity, these trains will meet growing passenger demand and encourage more people to switch to public transport. Passengers will also benefit from additional luggage storage, in-seat power, and an electronic reservation system.
