ScotRail has invested $432m to procure 69 new battery-electric trains and electrify Borders and Fife railways, boosting capacity, reliability, and sustainability and speeding up Scotland’s low-carbon transport plans.

ScotRail cancelled more than 17,000 trains in 2024/2025, raising serious concerns about service reliability across Scotland’s rail network, according to newly released figures.
Photo: ScotRail

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

ScotRail investment drives sustainable rail enhancements

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop confirmed that the programme will include electrification on parts of the Fife and Borders lines. Additionally, aging fleets will have new trains with improved access, level boarding, and improved passenger facilities.

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The new fleet will provide increased capacity, allow for quieter voyages, and decreased emissions. Government officials, in return, emphasized how such refurbs are vital for enabling modal shift and Scotland’s eventual decarbonisation plans.

ScotRail modern fleet to enhance passenger experience

The investment will include the use of extended formations, family-friendly waiting rooms, accessible toilets and cycle storage. As such, customers will gain greater comfort and convenience, and operators greater efficiency and reliability on key routes.

Network Rail’s Katie Vollbracht said that almost 140 km of Borders and Fife electrification is planned. However, fleet rollout will occur in 2031, following incremental upgrade of infrastructure and ongoing construction.

Source: railway-news.com

What is ScotRail investing in under this $432 million program?

ScotRail is investing in 69 battery-electric trains and electrification of lines in Fife and Borders. The initiative enhances sustainability, customer comfort, and operational effectiveness and supports Scotland’s programme of decarbonisation.

When will the new trains commence service for passengers?

The first new ScotRail trains will enter service in 2031, following gradual improvements to infrastructure and partial Borders and Fife lines electrification.

How will commuters benefit from the investment?

More reliable services, increased seating capacity, quiet journeys, and greener operation will benefit regular commuters. Besides that, cycle storage and accessible toilets will improve the traveling experience for the commuters.

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