Train seat that converts to bed unveiled in Derby
They're being called "game-changing"
Last updated 19th Sep 2024
A train seat, that can be converted into a lie-flat bed, has been unveiled at a factory in Derby.
The designers behind DreamSuite say it could boost comfort for budget passengers on overnight sleeper services and long-distance daytime journeys.
Future Travel Studio have developed it after getting £275,000 of funding from the Department for Transport and Innovate UK last year.
A prototype was revealed at Alstom today (Thursday 19th September).
The seat can be converted from an upright position to a flat bed with a length of six feet and two inches using a mechanical system.
It features a privacy screen and space to hang clothes and store bags.
Designer Nik Lusardi, whose previous roles include creating Virgin Atlantic's first-class seats between 2004 and 2016, told the PA news agency: "What we've been trying to do is democratise this kind of product on rails.
"We want to make this attainable for everybody, not just business passengers and people who've got deep pockets."
He said DreamSuite was a "game change" as his experience of UK trains was that the seats are "all a bit hard, they get uncomfortable after about half-an-hour".
He added: "We are very passionate about sustainability.
"We think there's a bit of a tsunami coming around this kind of product.
"People are gravitating more towards train. This product makes train travel a more compelling argument."
Alstom managing director for the UK and Ireland Nick Crossfield said: "By integrating advanced, flexible seating options into existing rolling stock, we're helping to unlock new opportunities for both daytime and night-time rail services, while supporting the industry's efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
"DreamSuite truly is a game-changer."
Future Travel Studio said it hoped to launch a pilot programme for DreamSuite, paving the way for commercial use.