The first of c2c’s new fleet of Class 720 trains, leased from Porterbrook, have entered passenger service.
Additional units will begin operations as driver training progresses.
UK-built, the new trains are designed to increase capacity and customer experience across the Trenitalia-owned train operator’s London to South East Essex route.
The new five-carriage 720 units can be used as five carriage trains or coupled together to form ten-carriage trains. Longer than their predecessors, they offer additional seating, power and USB sockets at every seat, improved Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
They also benefit from open gangways, designed to make it easier for customers to walk between carriages, have improved accessibility features, toilets on every train and dedicated cycle spaces.
“We’re delighted that the new fleet of Class 720 Aventra trains, which were designed and built in Derby, are now being introduced into passenger service.
“Working in partnership with c2c, we’ve delivered a fantastic product which will provide passengers with a next generation, reliable, modern and comfortable train.”
As part of the introduction of the new fleet, those involved in the project came together on Wednesday 27 September to see the first Class 720 pull in at London Fenchurch Street station.
Attendees included former c2c Managing Director Julian Drury, who retired in 2020, and was surprised to discover the first train had been named in his honour.
