Southeastern and Hitachi Rail Secure New Deal for Train Services

Southeastern and Hitachi Rail have finalized a transformative agreement to maintain the Class 395 “Javelin” trains. This strategic partnership aims to optimize fleet availability, cut costs, and advance a £27 million refurbishment program already in progress. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Under the new arrangement, Southeastern will manage maintenance operations in-house with Hitachi’s technical expertise. The shift from a Train Service Agreement to a Technical Support & Spares Supply Agreement will deliver taxpayer savings and uninterrupted passenger service.

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Introduced in 2009, the Class 395 trains are a crucial link on High-Speed routes connecting London and Kent. They operate between London St Pancras International and Ashford International, also serving destinations like Canterbury, Dover, and Margate.

Southeastern’s Plan to Optimize Train Services

The extended collaboration secures Hitachi’s technical support and global supply chain until at least 2027. Southeastern will absorb skilled Hitachi personnel under TUPE regulations, ensuring service continuity and retaining vital expertise.

Refurbishment Progress for Southeastern’s Fleet

Refurbishments for the Class 395 trains include completed interior upgrades and planned enhancements like new liveries. Updated customer information systems will enhance passenger experiences, with all upgrades set for completion by spring 2024.

Southeastern’s Engineering Director, Mark Johnson, emphasized the importance of maintaining fleet standards. “Our high-speed fleet is a flagship of Southeastern and vital for the UK railway network,” he noted. “We welcome new colleagues and will continue collaborating with Hitachi to ensure top-tier service.”

Hitachi Rail’s Senior Director OS&M Operations, Angus Thom, expressed confidence in the partnership’s future. “Hitachi Rail is proud to extend our collaboration with Southeastern. We are working closely to ensure a smooth transition for the new contract starting in 2025,” Thom stated.

The new maintenance contract, effective January 12, 2025, will ensure seamless train availability, reduced costs, and enhanced passenger satisfaction. Service schedules and timetables will remain unaffected, guaranteeing reliability across one of the UK’s busiest rail networks.

Source: www.globalrailwayreview.com

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