One of Southeastern’s largest train fleets has received a series of upgrades and improvements which will provide a better passenger experience on a number of routes.
All 112 of the Class 375 ‘Electrostar’ trains that operate on Southeastern’s routes serving East Sussex, Kent and mainline London stations have received at-seat power sockets, including USB points, and new LED lighting.
The energy efficient lighting will produce the same level of light in carriages while using up to 75% less energy, furthering reducing the impact on the environment of Southeastern’s all-electric train fleet.
In addition, energy meters have been installed on the 42 trains in the fleet that did not previously have them to keep track usage and costs.
Mark Johnson, Southeastern’s Engineering Director, said: "This £10 million investment in our trains help us to deliver better journeys on our mainline routes connecting London with Kent and East Sussex.
"The new LED lighting and energy meters also help us with our energy efficiency and supports our drive to reduce costs wherever possible.
"I’m really proud of all the hard work that has gone into making these improvements, and it is just one part of the wider programme to upgrade all of our trains so that they are fit for the future."
Paul Sutherland, Client Services Director at Eversholt Rail said: "It is fantastic these upgrades to our Class 375 fleet are now completed and available to customers across the Southeastern network.
"We are delighted to continue to work in partnership with Southeastern to improve our fleets and deliver improved passenger experience.”
Two trains per week were upgraded, with a team of 10 based at Southeastern’s Ashford Train Maintenance Centre on a five-shift turnaround, working days and nights.
Image credit: Southeastern Railway
