East Midlands Railway (EMR) has unveiled the first fully refurbished EMR Connect train.
The reveal of the train marks a major milestone in Transport UK’s 30 million GBP investment to transform journeys between Corby and London St Pancras International.
The first of the EMR Connect fleet to return to service as part of a 60 million GBP regional refurbishment programme, the Class 360 features a completely redesigned interior with 2+2 seating, upgraded luggage facilities, USB charging ports, improved passenger information systems, refreshed interiors and enhanced accessibility features.
Following re-entry into service in July; the train will begin operating twice-hourly electric services between Corby and London St Pancras International, calling at Kettering, Wellingborough, Bedford, Luton and Luton Airport Parkway.
The EMR Connect service was first introduced in 2021 as EMR’s first all-electric route, reducing carbon emissions by 77 per cent compared with previous diesel operations.
Further refurbished Class 360 units are expected to enter service over the coming months as the programme continues.
Dominic Booth, CEO of Transport UK, said:The unveiling of this first fully refurbished Class 360 train marks a key delivery milestone and demonstrates Transport UK's unwavering commitment to our passengers. This is a perfect example of our delivery-first culture in action, driven by operational expertise.
As part of our substantial £60 million regional refurbishment programme, it ensures comprehensive upgrades, delivering a higher quality journey for EMR passengers.
Crucially, this commitment extends beyond today's comfort: we are securing the long-term reliability of a modern electric fleet that has already achieved a 77 per cent reduction in carbon emissions on this route, serving the region responsibly and sustainably for years to come.
