UK to build new battery-powered trains for faster northern journeys
The UK government has announced 29 new battery-powered trains that will provide faster connections between northern English cities starting in 2034. The trains will be built at Alstom's Derby factory, creating thousands of jobs.
The UK government has announced the construction of a new fleet of trains intended to bring faster and more reliable rail journeys to the north of England. In total, 29 new trains will be built and operated by TransPennine Express.
Manufacturing and jobs
Construction will begin in 2028 at Alstom's Litchurch Lane works in Derby. The government estimates the project will support around 350 local jobs and nearly 6,000 jobs across the UK.
New train technology
The new fleet will consist of Adessia Stream trains, a battery-powered model. When they enter service in 2034, they will be the first trains of their kind used for long-distance mainline journeys in the UK. The trains will be able to run without emissions even on stretches of track that are not electrified, and will feature step-free boarding for easier accessibility as well as onboard wifi.
Political reaction
Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who regularly travels by train between London and Manchester, stressed the need for more reliable and efficient services. He noted that delayed or cancelled trains mean missed shifts, missed appointments and missed opportunities for passengers. According to Burnham, the new trains will increase rail network capacity by 30% over the next decade and shorten journeys between major northern cities.
Burnham linked the project to the Great British Railways initiative, emphasizing a return to national control over basic rail services. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander praised the announcement as an example of how Great British Railways will deliver better journeys for passengers while supporting British business, allowing people to move away from overcrowded, delayed diesel trains toward faster electric trains.
