From jamie.goodwin@hullcc.gov.uk | Monday 25 November 2019
Paragon fleet to provide 5,500 extra seats a week with greater reliability and a quieter, smoother ride.
The first of five new state-of-the-art trains has arrived at Hull’s Paragon Interchange.
Hull Trains £60 million Paragon fleet will transform train travel from Hull to London, according to the firm.
The new high-speed trains, built by Hitachi Rail, will provide 5,500 extra seats a week with greater reliability and a quieter, smoother ride.
The fleet, launched following months of driver training, is expected to be operational by early 2020.
Councillor Daren Hale, Hull City Council’s portfolio holder for economic investment, said: “This is a fantastic investment in the city and the new Hull Trains stock will be a travelling advertisement for the city of Hull.”
Hull Trains operates 92 services between Hull and London every week.
More than two-thirds of the journey between Hull and the capital will be operated using environmentally friendly electric power.
The electric trains use bi-mode technology, meaning they have the means to move independently of electrification infrastructure.
The fleet will include free Wi-Fi, plug and USB sockets throughout, a new at-seat trolley service and a greater choice of hot and cold food.
Hull Trains managing director Louise Cheeseman said: “We have made a significant investment in these hi-tech trains, which will completely overhaul the current service as our customers know it.
“Not only will these trains give a smoother ride, they will be a lot more reliable than our existing trains.
“More people will be able to travel, thanks to the 22 per cent additional capacity.”
