Transport UK and East Midlands Railway (EMR) have announced that the first Aurora train will start operating services on the Midland Main Line next month.

The Aurora trains are part of a new 400 million fleet of 33 trains being built by Hitachi, and compared with current trains, they have more seats, modern and spacious interiors, better air conditioning, free WiFi and plug sockets at every seat, and improved customer information screens.

Designed as bi-mode trains, the Auroras have the advantage of being able to run on the electric overhead lines installed during the £1.5 billion Midland Main Line upgrade. When running on electric power, carbon emissions will be dramatically cut by 66 per cent, and provide quieter and greener journeys.

Compared to the current Meridian trains, Auroras in a typical five-carriage configuration will provide 24 per cent more seats and over 19 per cent more legroom. In designing seats for the new trains, EMR collaborated with Derby-based design firm DG to refine a FISA Lean seat for more comfort and support.

Attention has also been paid to the continuity of Wi-Fi reception, with a system utilising multiple SIM cards for optimal signal reception, and specially designed glass that allows the passage of stronger mobile signals.

A new £35 million maintenance depot has been built at Derby for the new trains. Where possible, support for family-owned Midlands businesses was inherent in the supply of parts for the trains.

“The introduction of our first Aurora train this December marks the start of a new era for Intercity travel across the East Midlands and South Yorkshire. Our Auroras have been designed with our customers at their heart; with more seats, greater comfort, better connectivity and a smoother, quieter ride. We and our colleagues at Transport UK are delighted to be delivering a railway that our customers, communities and our employees can truly take pride in.”

Will Rogers, Managing Director for East Midlands Railway