Alstom to Upgrade and Maintain Class 222 Trains for Lumo

Alstom has secured a £50 million contract to modernize and maintain Class 222 Meridian trains for Lumo’s new Stirling–London open access service, boosting passenger comfort and train performance. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The agreement includes a £40 million Train Services Agreement with FirstGroup, handled at Alstom’s Central Rivers facility. Here, teams will clean, service, and overhaul five six-car units over five years.

Don’t miss…Hitachi Rail to Upgrade Hamburg–Berlin Line with Digital CCS

Additionally, a £10 million fleet upgrade with Eversholt Rail will be carried out at Alstom’s Widnes site. This program features ergonomic seating, improved Wi-Fi, and Lumo’s signature exterior branding.

The trains will also be fitted with new CCTV systems and Intelligent Engine Start-Stop technology. This helps improve energy efficiency and reduces overall emissions while the train is idle.

Alstom Modernizes Fleet to Strengthen Lumo’s New Route

Peter Broadley, Alstom’s Commercial Director for the UK and Ireland, highlighted the partnership as a step toward better rail travel. He noted the alignment of innovation, passenger service, and sustainability.

Central Rivers depot in Burton upon Trent features a high-tech double-head lathe, nine maintenance roads, and HVAC servicing. It supports overnight service for 26 trains and can stable up to 37.

At the Widnes Transport Technology Centre, the UK’s largest modernization hub, 50 direct jobs will be supported. Alstom’s UK supply chain will also benefit from the long-term investment.

Alstom’s Role in Advancing Open Access Rail

The refurbished Meridian trains, originally built by Alstom, will re-enter service next year. They will serve both central and southern Scotland and connect to London Euston.

Stations on the route include Stirling, Larbert, Greenfaulds, Whifflet, Motherwell, Lockerbie, Carlisle, Preston, Crewe, Nuneaton, Milton Keynes, and London. Several stops will gain their first direct London access.

FirstGroup’s CEO, Graham Sutherland, said the project supports the growth of open access rail. He emphasized its value in connecting underserved areas and enhancing cost-effective, sustainable travel.

Eversholt’s Paul Sutherland added that Alstom’s ongoing involvement ensures high-quality intercity trains. The upgrades are expected to enhance passenger satisfaction on the new route.

Alstom maintains more than 35,500 rail vehicles worldwide and provides tailored lifecycle support through its FlexCare™ services. These include operations, overhauls, parts supply, and modernization programs.

Source: railuk.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: