IN PICTURES: Inside EMR’s New Aurora Bi-Mode Fleet
East Midlands Railway (EMR) has unveiled the first interior images of its new 400 million GBP Aurora bi-mode fleet.
East Midlands Railway (EMR) has unveiled the first interior images of its new 400 million GBP Aurora bi-mode fleet.
This fleet is set to transform the travel experience on the Midland Main Line when introduced in 2025 and 2026.
Built by Hitachi, the state-of-the-art trains will provide passengers with more space and improved amenities compared to EMR’s current Meridian fleet.
The fleet’s key features include modern interiors, increased seating capacity, larger luggage areas, live passenger information screens, air conditioning, free WiFi, and power and USB sockets at each seat.
Rachel Turner, Head of New Trains at East Midlands Railway said:
“We’re really excited to share new photos of the interiors of our bi-mode fleet as the fleet progresses through testing and towards being passenger-ready.
“We have worked closely with Hitachi to ensure our trains offer customers the features and comfort they expect from a modern train.”
For passenger convenience, the new trains provide dedicated wheelchair spaces and bicycle storage.
EMR has worked with Derby-based design firm DG DESIGN to create a new seat design for the Aurora trains.
The collaboration has produced a refined version of the FISA Lean seat, with enhanced cushions, headrests, and armrests for better comfort and support. High-quality materials, such as a wool-rich herringbone moquette and leather, have been used throughout to ensure durability.
The seats are also designed with practicality in mind. They include power and USB points, ample legroom, and seat-back tables for all airline-style seats. Each seat has enough space underneath to stow a cabin bag, and there is generous overhead luggage storage.
In addition, the Aurora fleet has a class-leading WiFi system, which uses multiple SIM cards to select the best signal for passengers. The trains will also be equipped with bespoke glass windows that allow mobile signals to pass through, ensuring customers can stay connected throughout their journey.