Inside the new Azuma trains running from London to Leeds
‘This is all about getting more people travelling by train – get them out of the planes and on to the trains,' said David Horne, managing director, LNER
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The 11.03 train from London King’s Cross to Leeds on Wednesday 15 May is likely to depart “full and standing” as rail enthusiasts converge on the first of a new generation of inter-city trains.
The Japanese-designed, British-built Azuma train is intended to transform the experience on the East Coast main line – the UK’s flagship route, connecting the English and Scottish capitals with each other as well as Yorkshire and Newcastle.
They were originally intended to be running in 2018 in the colours of Virgin Trains East Coast. But the introduction was delayed because of compatibility problems with existing infrastructure. And the Virgin franchise, of which 90 per cent was held by Stagecoach, was handed back after financial targets proved hopelessly optimistic.
The government took back control of the franchise, which is now operated by LNER on behalf of the Department for Transport.
The new trains will replace the existing rolling stock, some of which is 30 to 40 years old. They are capable of 140mph, but track restrictions mean they will be limited to 125mph.
It is hoped, though, that the faster acceleration will lead to shorter journey times. The aim is to offer a two-hour trip between London and Leeds and four hours between London and Edinburgh.
“Azuma” is Japanese for “East”. The trains are made by Hitachi at its rail vehicle manufacturing facility in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.
The 65 trains will replace the existing fleet of 45, providing an extra 12,200 seats for an expanded timetable. Peak time capacity into King’s Cross should increase by 28 per cent.
At-seat technology has improved, with mains access for every passenger and improved wifi.
David Horne, managing director of LNER, told The Independent: “These trains mean more technology, more seats, they’re going to allow us to launch new services on the East Coast main line later this year.
“We’re going to be offering more of the lower-end fares. This is all about getting more people travelling by train. Our ambition is to get them out of the planes and on to the trains.”
The Azumas are similar to trains now running on GWR from London Paddington to Bristol, South Wales and the West Country.
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