Chiltern Railways Secures Fleet of 13 Low-Emission Trains

Chiltern Railways has secured a fleet of new, modern, low-emission trains following a ruling made by the UK Department for Transport (DfT).

The 13 units, which are due to enter service in phases beginning in 2026, will begin operation on Chiltern’s route between London, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and the West Midlands, replacing the oldest trains in the fleet.

The investment will allow Chiltern to schedule additional services from the end of 2026.

Each of the new units will run on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and featured improved accessibility, upgraded seating, live information screens, quieter journeys and dedicated luggage and cycle storage.

Chiltern was the first passenger train operator in the UK to introduce HVO on its current Class 68 locomotives in July 2023, with the operator announcing its intention to continue using the fuel alternative for its newer class 68 locomotives that will haul the 13 sets of modern coaches.

The announcement of the new units supports the Arriva Group’s long-term sustainability ambitions to update to modern fleets, improve overall fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impact across its services.

Amanda Furlong, Managing Director UK Trains at Arriva Group, said:

Upgrading our fleet is a vital next step in Chiltern’s modernisation plans and an important part of Arriva’s wider ambition to support the transition to more sustainable rail travel across the UK and Europe.

We are proud to support this important milestone for Chiltern Railways, which is a great example of what can be achieved through strong collaboration with Government to deliver practical improvements for passengers. We look forward to seeing these upgraded trains improve journeys and lower emissions across the network.

Both the new locomotives and coaches will be provided to Chiltern on a rental basis from owner Beacon Trains in a 10-year agreement which involves support from the DfT.

Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, said:

This government is putting passengers back at the heart of the 21st century railway by investing to make journeys easier, greener, and more comfortable.

We are continuing to support Chiltern as they develop a plan to introduce additional services into their timetable, giving people more opportunities to work, live, and socialise.