First look inside Scotrail's new electric trains

Passengers using Scotland's busiest rail route between Glasgow Queen Street and Edinburgh are getting their first look at the inside of the new electric trains which will begin running on the line in 2018.

Scotrail promised the Class 385 trains - which are being built by Hitachi Rail Europe - will deliver faster journeys, more seats and better services for Scotland when they are rolled out.

One of the first fully fitted trains was recently completed at the Newton Aycliffe plant.

The carriages will feature:

• Power sockets at each pair of seats
• Free WiFi throughout the train
• More luggage storage
• Cycle spaces in a clearly marked area
• Flexible storage area (prams, golf clubs etc)
• Two wheelchair spaces
• Accessible toilet in every train
• Windows closely aligned with seats

The Class 385s can operate in three, four, six, seven and eight car formations, providing much more flexibility to match demand with capacity. Unlike the existing Class 170 trains, the Class 385 have ‘through’ gangways between all coaches so that every part of the train can be accessed from the inside.

When eight-car trains are introduced on the Edinburgh - Glasgow via Falkirk High route, this will improve capacity by up to 44% at peak times.

There will also be more seats during peak periods on the Glasgow / Edinburgh - Stirling / Dunblane / Alloa lines, Edinburgh - North Berwick, and Glasgow Central - Edinburgh via Shotts.

ScotRail Alliance Managing Director Alex Hynes said: “It’s great to finally see the interiors of our new trains. They look great, and I know customers will agree.

“The finish of these trains will significantly improve the experience of customers travelling with us. Their design has resulted in bright, spacious and accessible carriages - perfect for commuters, business customers and leisure travellers alike.

• scotrail
• class 385