The first refurbished Class 360 train has been completed as part of a £30 million programme to modernise EMR Connect services.
East Midlands Railway (EMR) has unveiled the first fully refurbished Class 360 train, marking a significant milestone in a £30 million programme designed to transform passenger journeys on EMR Connect services between Corby and London St Pancras International.
The newly upgraded train is the first of the EMR Connect fleet to complete refurbishment and forms part of a wider £60 million investment programme focused on improving regional rail services across the East Midlands network.
Passengers using EMR Connect and Luton Airport Express services will benefit from a significantly enhanced onboard environment, with improvements designed to meet the needs of commuters, leisure travellers and airport passengers alike.
The first refurbished train is expected to enter passenger service next month, with additional units scheduled to follow over the coming months as work continues across the fleet.
EMR refurbished Class 360 trains deliver improved passenger experience
One of the most noticeable changes is the introduction of a completely redesigned interior featuring new 2+2 seating throughout the train. The layout combines airline-style seating and table bays, creating a more spacious and comfortable environment for passengers.
The refurbishment programme also includes upgraded luggage storage facilities, helping travellers make better use of onboard space, particularly those travelling to and from the airport.
Additional improvements include power sockets and USB charging points at seats, enhanced passenger information systems, refreshed interior finishes and a range of accessibility upgrades aimed at improving the travel experience for all customers
EMR Connect currently operates twice-hourly electric services between Corby and London St Pancras International, serving Kettering, Wellingborough, Bedford, Luton and Luton Airport Parkway. Since its introduction in 2021, the route has become EMR’s first fully electric operation and has reduced carbon emissions by 77 per cent compared with the diesel services it replaced.
Dominic Booth, CEO of Transport UK, said: “The unveiling of this first fully refurbished Class 360 train marks a key delivery milestone and demonstrates Transport UK’s unwavering commitment to our passengers.”https://youtu.be/pus_iSD5DS0?si=KRUfX0fvCPiXyd4A
He added: “As part of our substantial £60 million regional refurbishment programme, it ensures comprehensive upgrades, delivering a higher quality journey for EMR passengers.”
Investment supports long-term fleet improvements
EMR Managing Director Will Rogers said: “This investment will transform the experience for our customers, delivering trains that are more comfortable, more practical and better suited to modern travel.”
He added: “The refurbished fleet will provide a step-change for passengers using EMR Connect and Luton Airport Express services and I look forward to hearing what customers think of it when the first enters service next month.”
The programme is being delivered in partnership with rolling stock owner Angel Trains and Siemens Mobility, which has carried out refurbishment work through its facilities in Northampton and Bedford.
David Jordan, Chief Operating Officer at Angel, said: “These upgrades will make a real difference to passengers travelling on the EMR Connect route, helping to deliver a more modern and comfortable onboard experience while ensuring these trains continue to serve communities across the region for years to come.”
Aglaja Schneider, Joint UK&I CEO and Managing Director for Rolling Stock and Customer Services at Siemens Mobility UK&I, said: “It’s great to see the first refurbished Class 360 completed. We are delighted to be upgrading the Class 360s to deliver enhancements both to the passenger environments and technology to transform the passenger journey.”
The investment has also been welcomed by London Luton Airport and Transport for the East Midlands, both of which highlighted the role the upgraded trains will play in supporting sustainable transport and improving regional connectivity.
With further refurbished trains due to enter service throughout the year, EMR expects the programme to deliver a consistent and modern travel experience across the entire Class 360 fleet.
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