On Monday 25th November 2019, we were lucky enough to be invited by Hull Trains to see their brand new trains.
Arriving at 14:00, the new train, Class 802 No. 802301, crept into view of the press and photographers in the previously unseen new livery.
802301 has been built to a high specification and was built for Hull Trains by Hitachi.
The fleet of new high-speed trains is to be rolled out into passenger service, with the full Paragon fleet expected to be operational by early 2020.
Externally, these trains look stunning – they really do. Their modern bullet style nose cone at the front looks modern and up to date, their bright LED headlights and tail lights stand out in the dark and their non-yellow fronts bring Hull Trains bang up to date with train tech!
The 802 was seen in Hull Trains blue with a colourful vinyl stripe stating where Hull Trains carries passengers, varying from Hull to Retford and London Kings Cross.
This train was so new, it even smelt clean and new! The LED lighting made the interior feel bright and airy, whilst the seats all had USB points and power points.
We tested the seats too! When compared to the LNER Azuma's, they felt slightly more comfortable, however, we will reserve that thought for when we can complete a Hull to London trip!
We were lucky enough to have access to the cab, and wow – this is where the 802s stand out. Screens surround the cab, whilst a big captains chair takes centre stage. Yes, we got to sit in the chair, and boy is it a nice view 😀
The kitchen is at the 802301's Hull end, whilst this did look up to date and modern, it did look a tad tiny for its purpose, however, we will have to see how this performs in passenger service.
Moving back from the kitchen is the Paragon's 1st class carriage. Again, power points and USB points come as standard, as well as blinds to the windows (these are found in standard class too), extra legroom provides a luxurious way to travel to the capital.
Class 802s will replace the outgoing Class 180 ‘Adelante's' – we are awaiting a reply from Hull Trains about where the 180s will go.
802301, as with all the Paragon fleet, is bi-mode, this means it can operate on both electric and diesel power. For example, it arrived into Hull Paragon in diesel mode, but as soon as the 802 hits the East Coast Main Line, up goes the pantograph and can reach a maximum speed of 125 miles an hour! These trains also have improved acceleration and deceleration rates, meaning journey times will be cut.
Here is a video look round the new trains:
That rounds up a look round the brand new Paragon fleet. Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below and we will do our best to answer them.
A big thanks to Hull Trains for inviting us along to the launch of their brand new trains.
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The new Hull Trains Class 802 Paragon reminds me of Southeastern Highspeed Class 395 Javelin. But only different is that the livery. But its good to see these new Class 802 IETs coming into service.
It was announced about 6 months ago that the Hull Trains Class 180 “Adelante’s” would be transferred to East Midlands Railway?
very nice good train I want to have trip on one
I note that the cables linking the coaches together are all exposed. Wasn’t this an issue with the Azuma or some other new train set because they provide an easy means of climbing onto the roof?