Alstom secures major contract to modernise Class 222 trains for Scotland

Alstom has secured a major long-term deal with ScotRail that will see the company support and modernise the Class 222 fleet as it prepares for service in Scotland.

The agreement, valued at around £250 million, will run for an initial 10 years until March 2036, with an option to extend through to March 2042. Under the terms of the contract, Alstom will provide ongoing technical support and spare parts for 22 five-car trains, alongside a wide-ranging refurbishment programme aimed at improving reliability and the overall passenger experience.

A significant portion of the work will focus on upgrading both the interiors and exteriors of the trains. Plans include new seating, tables, carpets and LED lighting, as well as improvements to driver cabs and toilet facilities. Layout changes will also be introduced to better accommodate luggage, bicycles and accessibility requirements. The refurbishment element of the programme, delivered in partnership with Beacon Rail, is valued at around £80 million.

The overhaul extends beyond cosmetic changes, with a series of technology upgrades set to be installed across the fleet. These include enhanced passenger information systems, onboard media screens, hearing aid-compatible announcements, automatic passenger counting systems, upgraded CCTV, improved WiFi connectivity and strengthened cybersecurity measures. Each train will also be fitted with a defibrillator as part of wider safety enhancements.

Maintenance and support operations will be carried out across multiple Scottish locations, including Polmadie, Haymarket and Inverness. Alstom will supply engineering expertise, technicians, spare parts management and specialist equipment, as well as data services. Training programmes will also be introduced to ensure staff are fully equipped to manage and maintain the fleet.

The deal forms part of a broader set of agreements with rolling stock owner Beacon Rail, covering areas such as heavy maintenance, refurbishment and storage. It also aligns with wider sustainability goals shared by both Alstom and ScotRail, with a focus on reducing environmental impact, supporting economic growth and improving wellbeing across communities.

Rob Whyte, Managing Director UK and Ireland at Alstom, said:

“This agreement represents a significant vote of confidence in Alstom’s ability to support reliable, high-quality rail services across Scotland. The Class 222 fleet has a strong service history, and through this comprehensive programme of technical support, refurbishment and heavy maintenance, we will help to ensure these trains continue to deliver a safe, comfortable and dependable experience for passengers for many years to come. This investment also underlines our commitment to sustaining skilled jobs, developing engineering capability and supporting the UK rail supply chain as the industry continues its transition to a more sustainable railway.”

Joanne Maguire, ScotRail Managing Director, said:

“This is fantastic news for our customers and our staff, as we continue to work towards delivering a safe, green, and reliable railway. More modern trains are a significant factor in encouraging more people to leave the car at home and travel by rail, and this investment will deliver a considerable improvement in the journey experience. Introducing fully refurbished trains ensures customers will see immediate benefits, with enhancements in comfort, accessibility, and reliability. We are looking forward to working with our partners and the Scottish Government in the coming weeks and months as we begin the refurbishment programme and get set to welcome the new trains.”

Adam Cunliffe, Beacon Chief Executive Officer, said:

“We are delighted to have awarded this contract to Alstom to refurbish our Class 222 fleet, to support ScotRail delivering high-quality, high-speed services for their customers. Working in partnership with ScotRail and Alstom on the upgrade programme for these trains will enhance the on-board experience for passengers across Scotland. We look forward to seeing the refurbished trains enter service.”

Image: Alstom