UK Train Operators to Introduce Major Fleet Upgrades Across the Country

A number of publicly-owned operators have confirmed intentions to acquire new rolling stock in a series of major fleet upgrades across the United Kingdom.

New investment plans from Northern, TransPennine Express, LNER, Southeastern and South Western Railway will see the delivery of a huge number of new units serving passengers up and down the country.

Northern has announced plans to acquire up to 450 new trains in one of the publicly-owned operators most significant investments to date.

The new units will replace older rolling stock currently in service and will aim to enhance reliability whilst delivering a modern experience for the millions of passengers across the North of England.

Meanwhile, TransPennine Express has now officially begun the procurement process for up to 55 new trains, having now issued an Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) to a set of five shortlisted bidders.

The core order, which will consist of 29 trains, is set to enable the delivery of a slew of benefits related to the 11 billion GBP Transpennine Route Upgrade scheme funded by the Department for Transport.

This procurement has now reached the latter stages of proceedings, with a decision on the preferred bidder and contract award now expected in summer 2026.

LNER is set to introduce ten of the first tri-mode long-distance trains in the UK onto the East Coast Main Line. The new units will operate via the use of electric, battery and diesel power, reducing carbon emissions and aiming to improve connectivity across a number of key regions.

Southeastern has now issued an ITN for up to 640 new carriages (and potential follow-on options) that will, ultimately, serve routes to London terminals and key locations across south east London and Kent, including Dartford, Sevenoaks, Grove Park and Gillingham.

The investment is expected to be the largest in the network since the launch of high-speed services in 2009 and will see the replacement of its Metro fleet.

Finally; South Western Railway has introduced 29 of its new Arterios trains, which now operate 376 services every weekday, serving 96 stations.

Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, said:

Investing in new trains is vital for a successful, modern and reliable rail network and it’s great to see publicly owned operators delivering ambitious fleet upgrades that put passengers first.

Alongside the creation of Great British Railways, these programmes will bring more comfortable, accessible and sustainable journeys for millions of passengers and help deliver countless benefits.

From unlocking jobs, driving economic growth and supporting the development of new homes, we’re ensuring rail investment benefits whole communities as well as passengers.