ScotRail orders new trains to replace ageing HSTs – Daily Business

Class 222s will operate in Scotland from next year

ScotRail is replacing its high speed trains (HSTs) with a new fleet following a successful procurement process. 

The HSTs, which operate on intercity routes between Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Inverness, will be replaced by Class 222s, with the first due in service by late 2027. 

A contract has been awarded to train leasing company Beacon for 22 trains and to Alstom for technical support, spares, and maintenance services.  

The trains will undergo an extensive £80 million overhaul and refurbishment prior to delivery to ScotRail, supported by £67m from the Scottish Government. 

As the oldest trains in the train operator’s fleet, the HSTs are reaching the end of their usable life, which present operational challenges and make them considerably more expensive to operate and maintain. 

The HSTs have been popular with customers since their introduction to ScotRail in 2018, but are expected to be removed from service by December 2028.

A comprehensive technical support and spares supply agreement with Alstom is worth around £250m over the next 10 years. 

Joanne Maguire, ScotRail managing director, said: “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.” 

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop, announcing one of her final big projects before leaving Holyrood, said: “Resilient, reliable ScotRail services are key to encouraging more people to choose to travel by train for work, leisure and learning.

“Millions of journeys are made on our intercity routes between our key cities each year, and we want to encourage even more people to do so. 

“This contract award takes our ambitions a step further as we move forward with replacing the existing intercity fleet with trains that offer improved facilities and accessibility.

“The replacement fleet will provide a range of modern passenger features, and the contract also ensures that Scottish suppliers have opportunities to contribute their expertise and services.” 

Rob Whyte, managing director UK and Ireland at Alstom, said: “This agreement represents a significant vote of confidence in Alstom’s ability to support reliable, high-quality rail services across Scotland.

“The Class 222 fleet has a strong service history, and through this comprehensive programme of technical support, refurbishment and heavy maintenance, we will help to ensure these trains continue to deliver a safe, comfortable and dependable experience for passengers for many years to come. 

“This investment also underlines our commitment to sustaining skilled jobs, developing engineering capability and supporting the UK rail supply chain as the industry continues its transition to a more sustainable railway.” 

Adam Cunliffe, Beacon chief executive, said: “Working in partnership with ScotRail and Alstom on the upgrade programme for these trains will enhance the on‑board experience for passengers across Scotland.”

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