Chiltern Railways will roll out modern Mk5a carriages by spring 2026, enhancing comfort, reliability, and sustainability on its London Marylebone services. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Chiltern Railways upgrades its fleet with modern Mk5a trains, improving comfort, capacity, and sustainability with Class 68 locomotives by spring 2026.
Mark 5A train // Credit: Chiltern Railways

Chiltern Railways upgrades its rolling stock for 2026

Chiltern Railways is modernizing its long-distance services with the introduction of Mk5a carriages, formerly operated by TransPennine Express. These new units will replace the aging Mark 3 stock currently used on locomotive-hauled routes.

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The refreshed fleet will feature USB ports, power sockets, upgraded Wi-Fi, and new customer information systems. And for the first time, First Class seating will be available, offering additional space and comfort.

The new carriages will be pulled by Class 68 locomotives equipped with stop-start engines and powered by renewable fuel—specifically, recycled vegetable oil. So, passengers can expect both a quieter ride and a smaller carbon footprint.

At one end of the train, a driving trailer will allow full control of the locomotive, enabling efficient operation in either direction. This new setup will increase operational flexibility and reduce turnaround times.

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According to Managing Director Richard Allan, this move aligns with the company’s broader sustainability roadmap. “We’re replacing 50-year-old stock with carriages that are just six years old,” he said, noting that the upgrade will vastly improve the onboard experience.

Chiltern Railways also plans to lease more trains, boosting capacity and enabling additional services starting in late 2026. This expansion supports growing demand and helps meet passenger expectations.

The upgrade represents phase two of the company’s 2030 vision. Phase one is focused on interior refurbishments, while phase three aims to replace legacy diesel units with battery-electric trains. Because of this phased approach, Chiltern Railways balances innovation, environmental responsibility, and practical timelines.

Source: www.railadvent.co.uk

FAQ Section

What is Chiltern Railways doing to modernize its train fleet?

Chiltern Railways is replacing older Mark 3 coaches with newer Mk5a carriages and Class 68 locomotives by spring 2026.

How does Chiltern Railways plan to reduce emissions?

The operator will use locomotives powered by recycled vegetable oil and stop-start technology to cut carbon emissions on key routes.

Can you ride in First Class on Chiltern Railways in 2026?

Yes, First Class will be introduced on Chiltern Railways’ Mk5a services, offering spacious seating and enhanced amenities.

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