A new ten-year Technical Support and Spares Supply Agreement (TSSSA) has been signed between Alstom and ScotRail Trains Limited.

The £250 million (approximate) agreement will run until 2036, with the option of extension, and involves the technical support and spares supply for 22 five-car Class 222 trains.

This aspect will be combined with a Class 222 refurbishment programme, contracted with Beacon, which will include lighting upgrades, improved driving cabs, improved configurations aimed at accessibility and storage, as well as interior and exterior refreshes.

Additionally, information systems, announcement systems, CCTV, Wi-Fi, cybersecurity measures, and more will be upgraded, with defibrillators on every train.

Beacon’s contract of £80 million will see the provision of the 22 trains, with upgrades carried out prior to delivery to ScotRail, and where Alstom will take over.

The High Speed Trains (HSTs) are ScotRail’s oldest trains, and will be replaced slowly, with the first to be replaced by late 2027

The phased approach will ensure staff are well-trained to operate the Class 222s, with six of them being used for training.

They plan to have them fully integrated by the end of 2028.

“This is fantastic news for our customers and our staff, as we continue to work towards delivering a safe, green, and reliable railway.  

“More modern trains are a significant factor in encouraging more people to leave the car at home and travel by rail, and this investment will deliver a considerable improvement in the journey experience.  

“Introducing fully refurbished trains ensures customers will see immediate benefits, with enhancements in comfort, accessibility, and reliability. 

“We are looking forward to working with our partners and the Scottish Government in the coming weeks and months as we begin the refurbishment programme and get set to welcome this fleet to ScotRail.” 

Joanne Maguire, ScotRail Managing Director