Alstom, a leading innovator in sustainable transport solutions, has signed a £60 million (€70 million) contract to revamp CrossCountry’s fleet of Voyager trains. This extensive project will modernize the interiors with new seating, tables, and updated technology, while also refreshing the exterior with CrossCountry’s latest branding. The refurbishment will encompass 312 railcars, including 136 Voyager (Class 220) and 176 Super Voyager (Class 221) units.
The upgrade will see the installation of plush new carpets, advanced lighting systems, and an innovative passenger counting system. Furthermore, the project prioritizes sustainability with over 95% recyclable and 98% recoverable seating materials. The use of lighter materials will contribute to reduced fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions.
The refurbishment activities will take place at Alstom’s Derby Litchurch Lane facility, starting with design preparations and physical renovations scheduled from next year through to 2027. The project will engage approximately 100 Alstom employees, alongside extensive support from the company’s UK-based suppliers.
“We are excited to give these iconic Alstom-built trains some well-deserved TLC with a comprehensive overhaul that will include new seats, on-board technology enhancements and an exterior repaint,” said Peter Broadley, Managing Director, Services UK and Ireland at Alstom. “This refurbishment will not only delight fare-paying customers with increased levels of comfort and accessibility but will also support UK suppliers and skilled jobs across the country.”
Beacon Rail, the owner of the Voyager trains, is financing this upgrade. The modernized trains will continue to serve CrossCountry’s extensive network, stretching from Aberdeen in Scotland to Penzance in England.
“We’re delighted to be moving forward on the refurbishment of our Voyager fleet which will transform the passenger experience for customers on our long-distance routes,” said Adrian Hugill, Fleet and Engineering Director at CrossCountry. “We look forward to working with colleagues at Alstom and Beacon Trains to give the ever-impressive Voyager fleet a new lease of life on the CrossCountry network.”
This project builds upon Alstom’s existing relationship with CrossCountry. Last year, the company extended its Train Services Agreement (TSA) with CrossCountry for an additional eight years, through a deal worth about £825 million (€950 million). This agreement covers maintenance and servicing of the Voyager and Super Voyager fleets until 2031 at the Central Rivers depot in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire.
In addition to this refurbishment project, Alstom has secured a separate £370 million (€430 million) contract to manufacture 10 new nine-car Aventra trains for the Elizabeth line. These additional Aventra electric multiple unit (EMU) Class 345 passenger trains will also be constructed at Alstom’s Derby Litchurch Lane Works.
The Voyager and Super Voyager trains, a mainstay of inter-city travel in England, Scotland, and Wales for over two decades, have achieved speeds of up to 200 km/hour and accumulated over 427 million miles in service. This refurbishment project will ensure these iconic trains continue to provide reliable and comfortable travel for passengers for years to come.
