Hull Trains has launched the first of five new Hitachi-built Paragon trainsets on its route between Hull and London King’s Cross.
According to the rail operator The Paragon name was chosen “due to its stand-alone meaning and its significance in Hull” – the city’s railway station was originally called Paragon Station after its location next to Paragon Street, and was subsequently renamed as the Hull Paragon Interchange.
The five-car, bi-mode train is part of a £60 million order for five Paragon trains – two of which are undergoing final safety tests in the UK. Hull Trains expects to have all five of the new trains in operation by early 2020.
Once the fleet is fully operational, Hull Trains says that customers will benefit from 5,500 extra seats per week thanks for a 22 per cent increase in capacity, as well as “greater reliability and a quieter and smoother ride”.
The trains feature free wifi, plug and USB ports, and a new in-seat trolley service.
Open-access operator Hull Trains is owned by First Group, and currently offers 92 services per week between Hull and London.
Commenting on the news Andy Barr, Group CEO, Hitachi Rail said:
“These new trains designed using advanced bullet train technology have proven extremely popular, becoming the intercity train of choice on Britain’s rail network.
“The trains’ many benefits include no more diesel emissions when running on electric power, fast and free wifi, and greater comfort for passengers.
“With over 25,000 smart sensors on board each train allowing real-time monitoring, our maintenance team can ensure a reliable and efficient service for people travelling to and from Hull and beyond.”
Earlier this year it was announced that Hitachi had won the contract to supply trains for the Midland Main Line from 2022.
